Seeking Empirical Evidence for the Role of Pets

Abstract

As our communities reflect on the impact of COVID, our most recent pandemic, attention is being increasingly paid to our experiences with the lack of connection which arose from the isolation associated with the various public health measures advocated for public protection.Dell and Butt, 1 in a creative commentary, address the potential remedial benefits of animal companionship, which is receiving increased public support. Pets now appear to be present on public transportation, restaurants, care facilities, and other settings where animals were not previously welcome. Surprisingly, it is reported that the many attempts to garner empirical evidence on the positive role of pets have led to inconclusive results. This commentary adds 2 small, qualitative reports to the database. More consistent evidence arises from population surveys. As the commentary was being accepted for publication, an American Psychiatric Association (APA) Healthy Minds Monthly Poll concluded that 86% of pet owners reported a mostly positive impact on their mental health, 2 with most dog and cat owners equally likely to say so. The online poll was fielded in February 2023, among a sample of 2200 adults. The positive impacts reported include reduction of stress and anxiety, unconditional love and support, companionship, a calming presence, and true friendship. The APA, along with the American Veterinary Association, is now inviting pet owners to share their words and post pictures of their own pets on social media, under the hashtag #Paws4MentalHealth. We look forward to more feedback specific to our field. Submissions of Letters to the Editor or Brief Research Reports are welcome!