Pets & Mental Health: How Your Furry/Feathered Friend Boosts Your Mood

Ever notice how a wagging tail or a gentle purr can instantly lift your spirits? Pets do more than just keep us company—they play a huge role in supporting our mental well-being! Whether you’re a proud dog parent, a cat lover, or have a soft spot for smaller companions like rabbits or birds, here’s how your furry (or feathered) friend can help boost your mood and overall mental health.

1. Stress Reduction & Anxiety Relief

Studies show that petting an animal releases oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) (Hawkins, Hawkins, & Tip, 2021). The rhythmic motion of stroking a pet can be incredibly calming, making pets great natural stress relievers.

2. Combatting Loneliness & Increasing Social Interaction

Pets provide unconditional companionship, reducing feelings of isolation. For many, having a pet allows individuals to form deeper emotional connections with both others and themselves (Hediger & Beetz, 2021). For dog owners, daily walks often lead to friendly interactions with other pet lovers, naturally fostering social connections. Studies show that individuals with pets experience fewer mood swings and report lower levels of anxiety and depression.

3. Encouraging Routine & Responsibility

Caring for a pet adds structure to your day, which is essential for mental wellness. Feeding, exercising, and playing with your pet creates a sense of purpose and stability, which can be especially beneficial for those struggling with depression or anxiety.

4. Boosting Physical Activity

Dogs, in particular, encourage movement—whether it’s a morning walk, a game of fetch, or a hiking adventure. Physical activity is directly linked to improved mood, reduced stress, and better sleep.

5. Providing Emotional Support & Comfort

Pets have an incredible ability to sense emotions. Many people find that their pets respond to their moods, offering comfort during tough times. Therapy animals are even used to help individuals with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

6. Increasing Dopamine & Serotonin Levels

Spending time with pets has been shown to increase the “feel-good” neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals help regulate mood, reduce pain, and increase motivation.

7. Mindfulness & Being Present

Pets live in the moment, reminding us to slow down and enjoy the little things—whether it’s a playful chase, a nap in the sun, or the simple joy of companionship.

A Personal Reflection: Finding Comfort in Unexpected Companions

During the pandemic, like the rest of the world, I found myself isolated at home. Right at the start of it all, we decided to raise chickens. Growing up in the country, I had always been around animals—cats, dogs, cows, and every other critter that would follow me home. But somehow, I had never had a chicken.

At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But there I was, confined to my home with seven baby chicks to care for. Over the next few months, they became part of my daily routine, much like my cats or any other animal I had ever had. As the long COVID days passed, I found comfort sitting in my yard, simply watching the chickens. They would follow me around and come when I called, each with a distinct personality that was oddly fun to observe.

It was a strange time, full of uncertainty. But somehow, spending my evenings outside with those birds brought me a sense of peace when everything else felt so unknown.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have a loyal pup, a purring kitty, a feathery chicken, or even a tiny hamster, pets are powerful mood boosters. Their unconditional love and companionship can make a world of difference for our mental health. So, the next time you snuggle with your furry friend, remember—they’re not just pets; they’re little therapists with paws! 🐶🐱💖

🐾 Do you have a pet that helps you de-stress? Share your story in the comments! ✨

References:

Hawkins, R. D., Hawkins, E. L., & Tip, L. (2021). “I can’t give up when I have them to care for”: People’s experiences of pets and their mental health. Anthrozoös, 34(4), 543-562.

Hediger, K., & Beetz, A. M. (2021). Benefits of human-animal interactions for mental health and well-being. In One Health: the theory and practice of integrated health approaches (pp. 344-355). Wallingford UK: CABI.