Pets' love: How your pets help you in tough times

This week, as we recognize National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week, we reflect on how our animal companions have been beneficial to us throughout the years. The pandemic has increased the bond between humans and their pets, as many have sought company during periods of isolation over the last three years. 

Researchers discovered a strong relationship between human well-being and animal friendship. They show how our dogs help us overcome loneliness, serve as sources of encouragement, and improve both our mental and physical health. It seems that alongside laughter, our pets could also serve as medicine. 

Here are the various ways our animal companions can help us:

1. Source of strength, emotional security, and belonging

Pets can help us feel better when we're down. Recently, therapies have employed animal companionship to assist people in rehabilitation and during crisis intervention.

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In the field of psychotherapy, companion animals help in the development of rapport between the patient and the therapist. It also encourages them to feel relaxed throughout sessions. Pets provide a calming presence for people on the autistic spectrum, in nursing homes, and those suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or dementia.

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Pets can also provide emotional security and belonging, particularly for persons who have lost a loved one or feel alone.  

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2. Gives a sense of purpose and responsibility

Owning a pet is not the same as going for a walk in the park; it encourages the pet owner to take responsibility. Nowadays, people often compare owning a pet to having a child because it encourages pet owners to care for their animals by providing them with food and a comfortable home. 

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Individuals with mental health issues benefit from owning pets because they provide structure and routine to their days. They gain a sense of fulfillment and self-esteem by providing care. 

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3. Stress relievers

Playing with or talking to our pets can help owners relieve stress. According to a study, pets help to release dopamine and serotonin hormones, which help us relax and feel calm. Furthermore, studies suggest that simply petting your pets may help reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.

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Pets' nonjudgmental character allows people to express themselves and relax, which reduces stress and can lead to better mental health. 

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4. Encourages social interaction

Going for a walk with your pet or even just to the vet can help you start conversations with other pet owners or people who find your pet cute. They function as conversation starters and bring people together who share similar interests.

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In other countries, pets help schoolchildren relax and develop social skills, cooperation, volunteering, and reducing behavioral problems.

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5. Improved physical health

Aside from the emotional support that animal companions bring us, they also help us become physically healthy. Research indicates that pets can help lower blood pressure and can assist teens with Type 1 diabetes in managing their disease.

Pet owners can also reach their exercise goals and live a healthier life with the help of their pets. Depending on the pet owner, they can bring their pets with them in their athletic endeavors, such as running or walking in the park. This can help owners include exercise in their routine.

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While pets offer valuable assistance, research indicates that they may not be suitable for everyone. Some people have allergies, which can pose a risk to their health. Before getting a pet, you should consider this factor along with environmental and financial ones, as animals also deserve a good home.

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Whatever your pet may be—fish, guinea pigs, cats, dogs, or birds—one thing is certain: they are always there for us when we need them.

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Reference:

• How Do Companion Animals and Therapy Animals Support Mental Well-being? (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/companion-and-therapy-animals-mental-wellbeing 
• PAWSITIVE THERAPY: THE HEALING POWER OF PETS IN ENHANCING MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. (2024, January 24). Retrieved October 25, 2024, from https://region3.deped.gov.ph/sanjose/pawsitive-therapy-the-healing-power-of-pets-in-enhancing-mental-health-and-well-being/ 
• Pets and mental health. (n.d.). Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/pets-and-mental-health 
• Standard, M. (2021, November 6). Pets: Small unsung heroes of mental health - Manila Standard. Manila Standard. https://manilastandard.net/?p=369281 
• The Power of Pets. (2024, June 17). NIH News in Health. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets

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