Mental Health Awareness Month: The Therapeutic Power of Pets

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Did you know that 1 in 5 people in Canada will experience a mental health issue each year? Pets play a crucial role in our mental well-being by providing unconditional love, comfort, and support. In today’s blog, we’ll explore the incredible benefits of pets, with a specific focus on how they impact our mental and physical health, leaving behind pawprints of joy, resilience, and healing.

What is Mental Health Awareness Month? 

May is dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Month in North America, aiming to promote resilience and emphasize the importance of mental well-being for all, regardless of age, background, or situation. Initially recognized in 1949 in the United States, Mental Health Awareness Month actually started as a weeklong initiative led by Clifford W. Beers, the founder of Mental Health America. Its purpose was to educate the public and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, including conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Despite the progress made since its inception, there is still much work to be done. That’s why we’re excited to dive into an insightful perspective on mental health– one that involves one of our favourite topics: you guessed it, pets! 

The Connection Between Pets and Mental Health 

Many pet owners are aware of the immediate benefits of having a furry friend at home. But did you know that there are also physical and mental health advantages? Research on animal-assisted therapy (AAT) dates back to the 1960s when psychologist Boris Levinson discovered the positive impact of using his dog Jingles in therapy sessions. He found that the presence of the dog helped children open up and interact more easily. Since then, research on AAT has become more data-driven and focused on evidence-based practices. It has shown positive effects on conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Today, therapy animals, like registered therapy dogs, are used in various settings including hospitals, schools, and substance abuse treatment programs. Registered therapy dogs, in particular, are known for their unconditional love and selflessness, making them ideal companions for individuals struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. 

What the Research Says About Pets and Mental Health

 Recent studies have begun to shed light on the correlation between pets and mental health. Over time, pets have become highly attuned to human behaviour and emotions. Just like a best friend, your dog can interpret your tone of voice, body language, and gestures, often looking into your eyes to sense your emotions. It’s no wonder that evidence indicates companion animals can boost our mental well-being, even in challenging cases. Although research in this area is still limited, the results are clear– pets play a significant role in promoting mental health. Consider the following points and statistics regarding the therapeutic benefits of pets:

• Pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets.
• Playing with dogs, cats, or other companion animals can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which can help to calm and relax us.
• 86 percent of pet owners report that their pets have a positive impact on their mental health.
• The major mental health benefits cited by pet owners include reducing stress and anxiety (69 percent), providing unconditional love and support (69 percent), offering companionship (69 percent), providing a calming presence (66 percent), and being a true friend (63 percent).
• Heart attack patients with pets survive longer than those without.
• People with pets exhibit lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets. One study found that adopting a dog from a shelter led to significant decreases in blood pressure within five months for people with borderline hypertension. 

One of the main reasons for these therapeutic effects is that pets fulfill the innate human need for touch. Even in prison, interacting with a pet can lead to long-term changes in behaviour, with many individuals in prison experiencing affection for the first time. Petting, hugging, or simply being near a loving animal can quickly calm and relax you when feeling stressed or anxious. Additionally, the companionship of animals reduces loneliness, and dogs particularly encourage physical activity, this together can improve your mood and decrease depression.

 Benefits of Caring for Pets

Pets offer numerous health benefits, and when we talk about pets, we’re not just referring to cats and dogs. This could include rabbits, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, snakes– whatever you’re into! Even simply observing a fish in an aquarium can help ease muscle tension and reduce your pulse rate. Let’s explore some of the other advantages of caring for a pet: 

• Increasing Exercise: Walking your dog isn’t just good for them – it’s good for you! Research shows that dog owners are more likely to meet their daily exercise goals, which benefits both you and your canine. Not to mention, daily exercise also strengthens the bond between you and your pet, prevents behavioural issues in dogs, and keeps animals in good shape.
  
• Providing Companionship: Pets offer companionship and security, becoming valued members of our lives. Taking care of them gives us purpose and distracts us from life’s challenges. This sense of responsibility can contribute to better health and a longer life. Plus, chatting with then can be a source of comfort during life’s many ups and downs.
  
• Adding Structure and Routine to Your Day: Pets require regular feeding and exercise. Following a consistent routine keeps your furry and not-so-furry companions healthy and happy, and surprisingly, it can benefit you as well! No matter how rough your Monday might be, your Retriever Rita relies on you for her daily exercise and care, giving you a sense of purpose and responsibility, even when you’re feeling down.
• Providing Sensory Stress Relief: Did you know that cuddling your pets can be a quick stress reliever? Touching and moving around with your pet, whether it’s a dog, cat, or any other animal, can lower your blood pressure and make you feel calmer and less stressed in no time. Experience the benefits of pet cuddles firsthand!
• Reducing Anxiety: Pets can be great companions, offering comfort, easing anxiety, and boosting self-confidence, especially for people dealing with anxiety. There’s a lesson to be learned in their way of life – they live in the moment, never fretting about the past or worrying about the future. We’re not suggesting you adopt their mindset entirely but taking small steps to embrace the present can make a big difference.
• Introducing You to New People: Pets have this amazing ability to draw people in, haven’t they? It’s like they’re magnets for social connections! Whether you’re at the dog park, pet store, or a training class, having a pet by your side can spark conversations and help you make new friends. 

How Pets Improve The Lives of Older Adults 

As you enter retirement, the sense of purpose from your daily routine may diminish, leaving your days feeling empty. But having a furry companion can transform that experience! Caring for a pet can uplift your mood and give you a fresh sense of purpose. Adopting an older pet from a shelter like HSGN can be especially rewarding and fulfilling. Pets also promote physical activity among older adults, encouraging movement and play that counteracts the frequently cited challenges of aging. They infuse vitality into the lives of seniors, bolstering their immune systems and keeping them active. Additionally, as we age, maintaining social connections becomes more challenging. Retirement and life challenges often lead to fewer interactions with friends and family, making it harder to establish new relationships. This is where pets, especially dogs, come in. They provide opportunities for socializing and can facilitate meeting new people. 

How Pets Help Adults With Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia 

Individuals with Alzheimer’s often encounter various behavioural challenges, particularly in managing stress. Recent studies increasingly show that pets can play a meaningful role in reducing stress and calming anxious outbursts among adults with Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Research conducted at the University of California, Davis, found that Alzheimer’s patients experience less stress and display fewer anxious outbursts when they share their home with a dog or cat. Pets offer a form of positive, nonverbal communication. Playing with a well-trained, calm animal can soothe Alzheimer’s patients and reduce aggression. Exposure to vibrant aquariums or fish tanks has a calming effect, too. In one study, people at an Alzheimer’s facility who dined in front of aquariums ate more, acquired better nutrition, and were less prone to pacing. They were also more attentive and less lethargic. Interestingly, the challenging behaviours demonstrated in Alzheimer’s patients often arise from the stress experienced by the primary caregiver. Pets have demonstrated their ability to alleviate this stress. In such scenarios, cats or caged animals are usually more suitable options as they require less care, thereby minimizing the burden on the primary caregiver.

How Pets Benefit the Lives of Children 

Growing up with pets can benefit children in several ways. Not only are they less likely to develop allergies and asthma, but they also learn important life skills like responsibility, compassion, and empathy. Unlike parents or teachers, pets provide unconditional love without judgment, which can help reduce separation anxiety and give children a sense of security. Whether it’s a guinea pig, cat, or rabbit, having a beloved pet makes children feel valued and boosts their self-esteem. Kids who form strong emotional bonds with their pets tend to be better at forming relationships with others. Pets also teach empathy and understanding, as children can share their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. This helps the child build confidence and improve their language skills. Studies have shown that well-trained pets can even help calm hyperactive or aggressive children, showcasing the diverse benefits of pets.

How Pets Can Help Children with Learning Disorders and Other Challenges 

Children with autism and other learning difficulties often find it easier to interact with pets than with people. Since children on the autism spectrum rely heavily on nonverbal communication, which animals also use, forming a connection with pets can be beneficial for their social development. For example, pets can teach them important skills, such as stress management and emotional regulation, both of which are invaluable in navigating life’s challenges. In a study led by Maggie O’Haire of Purdue University, children with autism who had a guinea pig in their classroom showed increased social interaction with peers, more smiles and laughter, and reduced signs of stress. Engaging in play and exercise is equally beneficial. Studies indicate that these activities help children with learning disorders maintain focus and alleviate stress and frustration. And it’s not just pets at home that can provide all these amazing benefits; research suggests that activities like horseback riding can also enhance the self-esteem of disabled children, fostering a sense of confidence.

Owning a Pet is a Huge Responsibility – Consider Alternatives to Pet Ownership with HSGN 

Owning a pet comes with numerous mental and physical health benefits, but it’s essential to understand that it’s not without its challenges. While pets can bring an abundance of joy and companionship, they also require a major responsibility. It’s crucial to recognize that adopting a pet isn’t a quick fix for physical and mental health issues. It’s a serious commitment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Before deciding to bring any pet into your life, it’s important to consider the time, effort, and care required to ensure their well-being. If you’re unable to own a pet due to time, finances, or other reasons, there are still several other ways to enjoy the companionship of animals. For starters, you can volunteer at the Humane Society of Greater Niagara through the various programs we offer. Whether you prefer spending time with small animals, dogs, or cats– we’ve got you covered! 

Find Animal Companionship at HSGN– Become a Volunteer or Adopt!

Whether you’re interested in dog fostering, cat socializing or volunteering with our small animals, there’s a place for you at HSGN! Want to join our team of dedicated volunteers? Follow our simple step-by-step guide to get started. If you’ve crossed your I’s and dotted your t’s and feel that adopting a pet is the right choice for you, visit our adoption page. There, you can check out the animals currently available for adoption and learn more about our process. No matter which path you take, a new friendship is waiting just around the corner. If you have any questions regarding either our adoption or volunteer process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.