Pawsitive Effects -The Therapeutic Benefits of Petting and Interacting with Pets

Pawsitive Effects. Stroking a pet is a common activity that many people enjoy. Whether it’s cuddling with a cat or playing fetch with a dog, interacting with a pet can be a great way to unwind and relax. But beyond just providing enjoyment, there is scientific evidence to support the claim that stroking a pet is actually therapeutic.One of the main ways that petting a pet can be therapeutic is by reducing stress levels. Research has shown that when people pet a dog or cat, their bodies release oxytocin, a hormone that has been linked to stress reduction and improved mood. In fact, one study found that petting a dog for just 15 minutes can significantly reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body.Another way that interacting with a pet can be therapeutic is by improving our physical health. For example, research has shown that pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels compared to non-pet owners. Additionally, people who have suffered a heart attack or other cardiac event may be more likely to survive if they own a pet.But it’s not just physical health that can benefit from pet ownership. Studies have also found that interacting with a pet can have positive effects on our mental health. For example, one study found that petting a cat can lower blood pressure and reduce feelings of anxiety. Another study found that children who have pets tend to have higher self-esteem and fewer behavioral problems compared to those who don’t.Perhaps most significantly, pet ownership can be particularly beneficial for people who are struggling with mental health issues. For example, one study found that people who suffer from depression and own a pet tend to have fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to those who don’t. Another study found that pet ownership can be an effective way to reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation, particularly among older adults.So why exactly does petting a pet have such a powerful therapeutic effect? There are a few theories. One is that pets provide a sense of companionship and social connection that can be particularly valuable for people who are feeling isolated or lonely. Another is that interacting with pets can help to distract us from our own problems and worries, providing a welcome break from the stresses of daily life.Of course, not everyone is in a position to own a pet, and there are certainly some downsides to pet ownership, such as the cost and responsibility involved. However, for those who are able to own a pet, the benefits can be significant. Whether it’s reducing stress levels, improving physical health, or promoting feelings of social connection, interacting with a pet can be a simple yet powerful way to improve our overall well-being.In conclusion, petting a pet can be a great way to improve our physical and mental health. Whether it’s reducing stress levels, improving our cardiovascular health, or promoting feelings of social connection, the evidence suggests that pet ownership can have a range of therapeutic benefits. So the next time you’re cuddling with your furry friend, remember that you’re not just enjoying their company — you’re also doing something good for your own well-being.Sources:- Barker, S. B., & Dawson, K. S. (1998). The effects of animal-assisted therapy on anxiety ratings of hospitalized psychiatric patients. Psychiatric Services, 49(6), 797–801.- Friedmann, E., & Son, H. (2009). The human–companion animal bond: How humans benefit. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 39(2), 293–326.- Wells, D. L. (2009). The effects of animals on human health and well-being. Journal of Social Issues, 65(3), 523–54- Wilson, C. C., & Barker, S. B. (2003). Challenges in designing human-animal interaction research. American Behavioral Scientist, 47(1), 16–28.Allen, K., Blascovich, J., & Mendes, W. B. (2002). Cardiovascular reactivity and the presence of pets, friends, and spouses: The truth about cats and dogs. Psychosomatic Medicine, 64(5), 727–739.- McNicholas, J., & Collis, G. M. (2000). Dogs as catalysts for social interactions: Robustness of the effect. British Journal of Psychology, 91(1), 61–70.- O’Haire, M. E. (2013). Animal-assisted intervention for autism spectrum disorder: A systematic literature review. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 43(7), 1606–1622.- Wells, D. L. (2019). Dogs as support and motivation for physical activity in later life. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(23), 4673.- Wood, L., Martin, K., Christian, H., Nathan, A., & Lauritsen, C. (2015). The pet factor — companion animals as a conduit for getting to know people, friendship formation and social support. PLoS One, 10(4), e0122085- Wright, H. F., Hall, S., Hames, A., Hardiman, J., Mills, R., & Mills, D. S. (2015). Pet dogs improve family functioning and reduce anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorder. Anthrozoös, 28(4), 611–624.Sources cited in this article suggest that pet ownership and interacting with pets can be beneficial to physical and mental health. The article highlights that petting or stroking a pet can have a positive effect on reducing stress levels, lowering blood pressure, reducing anxiety, and improving mood. It also highlights that pet ownership can be particularly beneficial for people struggling with mental health issues or experiencing loneliness or social isolation.Overall, the scientific evidence suggests that pets can provide significant therapeutic benefits to their owners. Whether it’s the companionship they offer, the social connection they provide, or the distraction they offer from daily stresses, pets can be a powerful source of comfort and support.