Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 14 : Fall 2012 | Page 79

significant data that shows pets, especially cats, help ease
stress and thereby reduce the risk of stress-related illness,
including stroke.

Research presented at the International Conference
on Human/Animal Interactions found that, based on
surveys from more than 11,000 people over a five-year
period, pet owners made 15 – 20 percent fewer annual visits
to the doctor because they experienced overall better health.

for people who are shy, uncomfortable in public settings, or
who have mental or physical conditions that otherwise limit
their social skills. Additionally, there is profound evidence
that interacting with animals directly, even when no other
people are around, is a socially fulfilling experience. In one
study from researchers in the United Kingdom, 87 percent
of 50 – 60 year old women with breast cancer reported
that their pet filled at least one important role in the social
3
support needed for their recovery.6 Numerous other studies
have shown that people at a higher risk for feeling isolated,
Psychological Well-being
including older adults and people who live alone, feel a

Like Willie, pets often serve as an important source much stronger sense of companionship and belonging
of emotional support. For years, therapists have ‘prescribed when they have a pet to ‘talk’ to.
pets’ to help people cope with and overcome mental health
issues. “Pets have a soothing effect,” said Dr. Piper. “They
Stay Well With Animals…Any Animals
can reduce anxiety, ease depression, and improve attitude
Interestingly, it doesn’t seem to matter if the animal
just by their mere presence.” Without even realizing it, a you interact with has fur, feathers, gills, or scales – any
person’s body physically reacts to interactions with animals. animal has the potential to improve your wellness according
Playing, petting, snuggling, walking, or even just watching to reports from organizations such as the National Institute
an animal elevates levels of serotonin and dopamine – the of Health, British Medical Journal, WebMD, and the
nerve transmitters that are known to have pleasurable and Center for Disease Control. The greatest benefit is generally
calming properties –and cortisol, the hormone associated derived from one’s own pet with which there is a personal
with stress, is lowered.4 This natural response is one attachment. When choosing a pet, however, it is important
explanation as to why pet owners tend to be happier people. to consider your lifestyle, needs, and ability to care for the
A series of studies by psychologists at Miami University animal. If you are looking for a high energy exercise buddy,
concluded that people who regularly interact with animals consider a greyhound or border collie. If you need a low
have greater self-esteem, are more physically fit, less lonely, maintenance companion, rescue a cat from the shelter.
more conscientious, less fearful, and overall fared better in If you want to create a low-stress environment, get a fish
terms of well