Feeling stressed? Try reaching out to your pet

Abstract: A new global survey of over 30,000 pet owners conducted by Mars and Calm uncovers the many ways pet cats and dogs impact our daily wellbeing. From being the go-to companion in a moment of stress to nudging people to take more breaks, pets are quietly helping us be more Zen, the two firms said in a release. Pets, they add,  are even encouraging us to take breaks from activities that can fuel our stress.

A new global survey of over 30,000 pet owners, commissioned by pet care business Mars, and Calm, a leading mental health company, has found that the majority of pet owners (58 per cent) prefer to spend time with their pet when feeling stressed – more than those who say their partners (32 per cent), family (23 per cent), or even children or friends (both 18 per cent).

In fact, 83 per cent of people surveyed believe their pet has positively impacted their mental wellbeing, findings reveal.

A release issued by the two organizations states that the survey which was conducted across 20 nations ranging from the U.S. to China, “highlights the powerful ways our pets improve our mental health and wellbeing.

“From encouraging us to switch off in our day-to-day with breaks from screens, work and chores, to offering silent comfort when words feel too much, the findings paint a striking picture of how pets are helping millions of people around the world find peace in an always-on world.”

According to the release, more than half of pet owners (56 per cent) say their pets provide company without the need to talk during stressful times. While others find chatting to their pet can help – with nearly a quarter (23 per cent) saying their pet provides a space for them to express worries or concerns without expecting a response. A huge 84 per cent of pet owners say the simple presence of their pet is relaxing, offering a sense of calm that doesn’t require words or actions.

Survey results revealed that:

• Almost eight in 10 (78 per cent) say their pet reminds them to pause and take a break from work, chores or tasks, with 50 per cent saying this happens daily – a gentle reminder to stop, breathe and reset
• 73 per cent of owners say their pet encourages them to stop overthinking or worrying – helping them feel calmer and more centred
•  73 per cent of pet owners say their pet encourages them to spend time outside, turning walks with a pet into wellbeing
• 77 per cent say their pet encourages them to take a break away from screens – and for half (50 per cent) it’s a daily reminder to unplug, a vital counter to constant scrolling and digital burnout

Dr. Tammie King, a specialist in human-animal interaction and senior research manager at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute said that “while we love our pets, we often don’t realise how much they give back.

“Reframing your pet’s daily ‘interruptions’ as loving reminders to pause, breathe and be present can be a powerful wellness tool. Research shows that touch-based pet interactions can boost oxytocin levels in humans) The findings of this survey will help more people reflect on and acknowledge the little wellbeing moments pets nudge us towards on a daily basis.”

Dr. Chris Mosunic, chief clinical officer at Calm said that “we know that small, intentional moments of calm can have a big impact on our overall wellbeing, and our pets have an incredible way of guiding us there. A quick dog walk, or cat cuddle at our desk when they stroll in front of the screen, can provide a simple moment to reset and recharge.”

The two organizations, meanwhile, said the survey marks the launch of a “first-of-its-kind partnership between Mars and Calm which aims to explore and celebrate the deep connection between people and pets as a force for everyday wellbeing.”