There exists a powerful
relationship between animals and people and the positive
impact of this relationship on
physical and mental health and
overall well-being of individuals, families and communities.
The Pet Effect, a multi-faceted, educational
campaign to promote a growing body of scientific research
that shows how important the human-animal bond is for human
health. The purpose of the Pet Effect is to raise awareness
and encourage conversation about why pets make us healthier
and happier, and how veterinarians — the professionals who
help keep pets healthy – are also key contributors to human
health and public health.
Visit The Pet Effect for
more information...
Positive human-animal interaction appears to be related to changes in physiological variables both in humans and animals, particularly dogs. HAI has been shown to influence levels of blood pressure, heart rate, hormones correlated with well-being including cortisol, oxytocin, b-endorphin, prolactin, phenylacetic acid and dopamine. People are happier and healthier in the presence of animals. Scientifically-documented benefits of the human-animal bond include decreased blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and enhanced feelings of well-being.
There is growing evidence that companion animals’ positive influence many important physiological, psychological and relational benefits, including quality of life and well-being. Research is demonstrating the positive influence of pets and animal therapy on a child’s physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. Scientific research has demonstrated the positive impact of early exposure to pets on the development of allergies and asthma later in life.
Many studies have explored the relationship between pet ownership and cardiovascular health through focusing on the blood pressure, heart rate and physical activity of pet owners compared to non-pet owners. The American Heart Association reviewed these studies and issued a Scientific Statement connecting pet ownership to the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Read More...
There is growing evidence that companion animals’ positive influence many important physiological, psychological and relational benefits, including quality of life and well-being.
For the elderly, companion animals enhance quality of life, bringing value, meaning and worth.
Pets promote relaxation, help seniors adhere to a daily schedule, and enhance their mobility and well-being.
Pet ownership is associated with improved quality of life through social support, reduced depression, and other psychosocial predictors of health.
Pet owners have been found to report higher life satisfaction that non-owners.
Positive human-animal interaction appears to be related to changes in physiological variables both in humans and animals, particularly dogs. HAI has been shown to influence levels of blood pressure, heart rate, hormones correlated with well-being including cortisol, oxytocin, b-endorphin, prolactin, phenylacetic acid and dopamine. Read More...
Visit the Human Animal Bond Research Institute.
Fun Fact: Pets can reduce
symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with
Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A broad range of
investigations have found that animal-human interactions
reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness as they enhance
social support and general well-being.
