The benefits of living with animals

The relationship between humans and their pets, especially dogs and cats, has evolved to the point that they are considered as another member of the family. Over recent decades, the number of households with pets has increased, which begs the question: what is it that makes the company of a dog or cat so special?
 
Various scientific studies have tried to answer this question over the last 50 years, analysing the bond between humans and animals from psychological, sociological and biological perspectives. These days, the media often mention the benefits of this bond, which is no longer seen as a recent or marginal phenomenon, but as a significant aspect of many people’s lives.

A question of chemicals

One of the most significant discoveries is how interaction with animals affects our brain. Just looking at our dog or cat unleashes neurochemical responses that generate wellbeing. The release of oxytocin, a hormone related to the creation of social bonds is one of the main causes of this sensation. Other chemicals such as dopamine and endorphins, which activate the brain’s pleasure centres, also play a fundamental role. This combination makes interacting with our dog or cat relaxing and both physically and mentally beneficial. Professor Aubrey Fine from the California Polytechnic State University compares this effect with a “biological spa” that helps us feel better.

In addition to brain chemistry, the appearance and behaviour of dogs and cats, especially of some breeds, plays an important role in our attraction towards them. A pet’s facial expressions and playful attitude activate our caring instincts, facilitating an emotional connection. According to professors Evan MacLean and Brian Hare from Duke University, dogs are “designed” to activate the emotional bonding mechanisms that exist between humans.

A bond that has endured for thousands of years, with physical and emotional benefits

This bond is not a recent phenomenon. Domestication strengthened the connection between humans and animals. Archaeological evidence that shows that humans started to live with dogs approximately 30,000 years ago and with cats around 12,000 years ago. Emotional bonds with animals have been universal throughout the ages and in different cultures.
 
Living with animals not only generates an emotional connection, but also offers tangible benefits for our health. Multiple studies have demonstrated that their company can improve physical and mental health. For example, pioneering studies have linked living with animals with lower blood pressure, reduced depression and greater sociability. It has also been observed that people who live with animals tend to need fewer visits to the doctors, which suggests an improvement in their general wellbeing.

In addition to the physical benefits, our pets offer us social support, which is essential for emotional wellbeing. They are always there for us, offering us emotional closeness and physical contact, which acts as a valuable source of support. This support is particularly important in times of stress or when human social networks are weakened. Living with dogs or cats also facilitates our relationships with other people: they can act as social catalysts, providing more interactions and activities with other people.

Bibliographic References

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