Authors: Dr. Abbie Maroño
Published: November 12, 2023
Imagine, for a second, you’ve had a tough day at work. Your boss was demanding, the meetings were endless, and every task seemed to pile on top of another. You finally arrive home, and as you push the front door open, you instantly hear the excited patter of paws racing towards you. The stress of the day begins to melt away as you feel the warmth and love of your pet.
There is nothing, and I mean nothing, on this earth that makes me feel as peaceful as when I am sitting in my apartment, under a blanket, with one of my cats wrapped up in my arms. The sound of their little heartbeat and purring soothes every muscle in my body. Whether you get this from your cat, dog, rabbit, ferret, or any other pet, it is undeniable that cuddling a fluffy animal is surprisingly therapeutic. Research has shown that our relationship with our pets has both psychological and physiological benefits, and has been shown to aid in trauma recovery, particularly for children.
Love and Companionship
Our pets provide a unique sense of companionship that can deeply enrich our lives. This bond between us and our pets is often described as unconditional, offering a consistent and reliable source of comfort and affection. Unlike human relationships, which can be complex and fraught with expectations, the relationship with a pet is straightforward and filled with mutual trust and love (and lots of Dreamies treats). The presence of a pet provides a non-judgmental space where children can express their emotions freely, which can be incredibly beneficial for children dealing with trauma as they often struggle with feelings of trust towards others.
Pets also help establish a sense of routine and normalcy for children recovering from trauma. Caring for a pet involves daily responsibilities such as feeding, walking, and grooming, which provide structure and stability. This routine can be particularly beneficial in chaotic situations, offering children a predictable and stable aspect of their daily lives. Indeed, research has found that therapy dogs help reduce anxiety and improve engagement in therapeutic activities for children who have experienced trauma.
Additionally, pets have been shown to increase happiness and overall life satisfaction significantly. This is often attributed to the affectionate and loyal nature of pets, which fosters a sense of joy and fulfillment in their owners. The act of caring for a pet provides a sense of purpose and responsibility, which can enhance feelings of self-worth and happiness. The importance of this cannot be overstated for trauma recovery, as it has been empirically linked to reduced suicidal ideation.
A Calm Nervous System
Evidently, spending quality time with our pets has a positive psychological effect, but it goes much deeper than that; the relationship actually benefits us physiologically. Studies indicate that interacting with pets can reduce levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone, and increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection. This hormonal shift can lead to a decrease in stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
The calming effect on the nervous system from being with and cuddling animals is profound. Engaging with pets activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and relaxation. This activation counteracts the body’s stress response, leading to lower heart rates, reduced blood pressure, and a sense of tranquility. Furthermore, spending time with animals has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators. This combination of physiological responses not only eases physical tension but also significantly improves mental health. Indeed, regular interaction with pets has been linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety, increased feelings of happiness, and overall emotional stability.
Animals in Therapy
The benefits of interacting with animals go beyond theoretical understanding; animals have been effectively used in therapeutic settings to improve mental and emotional health. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) involves the use of trained animals as part of a therapeutic process to enhance the treatment outcomes. Research has shown that AAT can improve emotional regulation, reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and enhance social interactions for individuals with autism. For example, veterans with PTSD who participate in AAT typically report significant reductions in symptoms and improved overall well-being.
In addition to emotional benefits, animals can help correct behavior. Programs that incorporate animals into correctional facilities have shown promising results. For instance, research on programs where prisoners care for cats or dogs indicates that these interactions can lead to improved behavior, increased empathy, and reduced recidivism rates. Specifically, studies have shown that inmates involved in animal care programs demonstrate enhanced social skills, reduced aggression, and a greater sense of responsibility.
In sum, the love and companionship of pets offer profound psychological and physiological benefits that deeply enrich our lives. From alleviating loneliness and boosting happiness to calming the nervous system and instilling a sense of purpose, the bond we share with our pets is truly invaluable. For children, particularly those recovering from trauma, pets provide an unwavering source of comfort and support, helping them navigate their emotions and fostering a sense of stability and trust.
