Much research has shown that pets benefit both physical and mental health. In fact, a recently published study found that pets have a positive impact on wellbeing similar to that of friends and family.³

Science has long established that pets help people reduce stress and maintain healthy routines. Pets can also help alleviate depression and physical pain—and provide a sense of purpose. More recently, researchers have been investigating the effects of pet ownership on brain health. One study suggests pet ownership is associated with greater cognitive and brain health.⁴ In older adults, pet ownership may even slow cognitive decline.⁵

According to the American Heart Association and other sources, pet ownership can improve mental health in myriad ways:

• Reduce work-related stress. 40% of employees cite their job as a source of stress. Studies show that pets in the workplace help reduce stress and improve employee satisfaction.⁶
• Help manage anxiety. Studies show that interacting with pets reduces levels of cortisol (the stress-related hormone), raises levels of serotonin and dopamine (the “happiness hormones”), and increases the release of oxytocin (another chemical that naturally reduces stress).⁶
• Improve child and teen mental health. A CDC study found that pets have a beneficial effect on childhood stress and anxiety. In the study, the percentage of children without pets who displayed anxiety was nearly double that of children who owned a pet.⁷ Children who grow up with pets may have a better chance of becoming happy and healthy teens.
• Practice mindfulness. Pets encourage their owners to live in the moment. As a result, pets can help us become more mindful, bringing attention to the present moment without worry about the past or the future.
• Build relationship skills. Research shows that those who are emotionally attached to their dogs have an easier time building relationships with other people. Pets also provide a sense of togetherness, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Finally, pets provide unconditional love, support, and validation that can’t be found in family or social relationships, helping to alleviate anxiety and other mental health issues.

Pet insurance can provide peace of mind so if something unexpected happens to your four-legged friends, you can keep them protected. A comprehensive Pet insurance plan can reduce the stress associated with unexpected illnesses and associated veterinary bills. Learn more.

¹ Robinson L, Segal J. The health and mood-boosting benefits of pets. HelpGuide. www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/mood-boosting-power-of-dogs.htm, February 5, 2024.
²Pet Ownership Statistics 2025. Forbes. www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-ownership-statistics, January 2. 2025.
³Gmeiner MW, Gschwandtner A. The Value of Pets: The Quantifiable Impact of Pets on Life Satisfaction. Soc Indic Res 2025;178, 185–223.
⁴McDonough, Ian M et al. “Pet ownership is associated with greater cognitive and brain health in a cross-sectional sample across the adult lifespan.” Frontiers in aging neuro. 2022;14:953889,
⁵Applebaum JW, Shieu MM et al. The Impact of Sustained Ownership of a Pet on Cognitive Health: A Population-Based Study. J Aging Health. 2023;35(3-4):230-241.
⁶5 Ways Pets Help With Stress and Mental Health. American Heart Association. www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-bond-for-life-pets/pets-as-coworkers/pets-and-mental-health, October 4, 2024.
⁷Gadomski AM, Scribani MB et al. Pet Dogs and Children’s Health: Opportunities for Chronic Disease Prevention? Prev Chronic Dis 2015;12:150204.