Scientists Just Studied Whether Pets Make You Healthier
Summary
A study by the University of Basel found little proof that simply owning a pet improves overall physical or mental health. Instead, how much time people spend with their pets and the emotional support they feel from them may affect their well-being more.Key Facts
- The study surveyed 2,328 adults in Switzerland about their pet ownership and health.
- Researchers looked at pet ownership, contact with animals, emotional attachment, and perceived support from pets.
- Pet ownership alone was not linked to better physical health, mental well-being, lower loneliness, or higher life satisfaction.
- Women, dog owners, and those spending more time with pets reported stronger emotional bonds and more support.
- Surprisingly, pet owners reported slightly worse health and smoked a bit more than non-owners.
- People with greater emotional support from pets sometimes had lower psychological well-being and more loneliness, possibly because those struggling may rely more on pets.
- The study was observational, so it cannot prove that pets cause any health effects.
- Spending more time with animals was linked to better psychological well-being, showing that different parts of the pet relationship matter.
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