Having an animal companion may not suit everybody. However, for many, pet ownership can be an immensely rewarding avocation or “way-of-life”. This article is written to celebrate the wealth of positivity animals have on humans in the advent of “World Animal Day” - 4th October. For centuries, humans have noted the benefits of interacting with animals.

As early as c18, doctors started to realise that patients with severe mental disorders displayed improvements in their mental health when they interacted with animals. Similarly, in c19, doctors observed that patients recovering from medical conditions gained great pleasure when interacting with animals.

More recently, studies have reported that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience increased calm when in the presence of animals. Indeed, marked behaviour change have been noted following animal bonding in ASD individuals. This includes the case of an autistic boy with aggressive behaviour who calmed down as soon as the family acquired a cat.  Many on the autistic spectrum also experience a sense of control when they are in the company of animals as they do not feel judged. Consequently, for those who find social interaction difficult, many report that having an animal companion is most beneficial.

Having a pet can also help those suffering with physical ailments, such as heart disease and cancer. Indeed, having a pet can reduce the sense of isolation linked to the person’s condition, increase the person’s level of physical activity (e.g., due to dog walking duties) and provide useful social function (e.g., coming into contact with fellow dog walkers).

A similar observation has been made in relation to individuals with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders and dementia. Many affected by these conditions report a pleasant sense of companionship in relation to their animal bond. Additionally, the very act of stroking and being close to an animal can lead to a sense of acceptance and a greater sense of purpose.

Finally, there has been recent attention on pet ownership among the “street” homeless community, at least partly fuelled by the 2016 release of the award winning film “A Street Cat named Bob”, which documents a street homeless heroine addict who transformed into a publishing sensation after he formed a bond with a cat. The homeless man linked his success with the positive influence his cat provided. Indeed, many street homeless people find animals great companions and note that the soothing effect animals bestow can relieve stress, anxiety and isolation.

By Daniel MacInerney BSc. (Hons.) MSc. | Edited By Thomas Brown BA (Hons.) PG Cert. MBPsS

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