Survey Finds Pets are Preferred Companions During Stressful Times

Pets: The Ultimate Stress Relievers

In an intriguing new survey conducted by Mars and Calm, it was revealed that a striking 58% of pet owners opt to spend time with their pets when feeling stressed, surpassing their partners, family, or friends as sources of comfort. This highlights a deep-rooted bond between people and their furry companions, suggesting that pets may be playing a critical role in enhancing mental health during challenging times.

The Survey Insights

The survey, which gathered responses from over 30,000 pet owners across 20 countries, shed light on how these companions can positively impact our well-being. A whopping 83% of participants acknowledged that their pets have contributed positively to their mental health, illustrating the profound effect these animals have on their owners. Interestingly, it appears that the simple act of being with a pet can be incredibly soothing, with 84% of pet owners expressing that their pets bring them a sense of calm without the need for conversation.

The Comfort of Silence

For many, the comfort provided by pets is a silent one. An impressive 56% of respondents noted that their pets are great company, often providing solace without the pressure to engage in dialogue. Furthermore, nearly 77% indicated that talking to their pets helps them feel relaxed, highlighting the unique communication that exists in pet-owner relationships.

Dr. Tammie King, a human-animal interaction specialist, emphasizes that many pet owners might not fully realize how beneficial their pets are during stressful periods. She mentions that reframing pets' daily 'interruptions' as reminders to pause and breathe can be beneficial for mental wellness. Research indicates that human-animal interactions can significantly boost levels of oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and comfort.

Pets as Gentle Reminders

The survey also pointed out how pets encourage their owners to adopt healthier habits. Approximately 78% of participants reported that their pets remind them to take breaks from work or chores, giving them the necessary prompting to step back and relax. Fifty percent of those surveyed stated that these reminders occur daily, suggesting that a furry companion can be a pivotal part of establishing a balanced routine.

In addition to serving as reminders to unplug and recharge, pets also motivate their owners to engage more with the outdoors. An impressive 73% indicated that their pets encourage them to spend time outside, transforming daily walks into opportunities for healing and connection with nature.

A Partnership for Wellbeing

This significant survey coincides with the launch of a unique collaboration between Mars and Calm, aimed at celebrating the special bond between pets and their owners. Together, they will release pet-inspired content designed to support mental health and create awareness during Mental Health Awareness Month in the US and Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK.

The partnership promotes an interactive initiative, encouraging pet owners to share their unique stories showcasing the power of the human-animal bond. Through this campaign, selected pet stories will inspire exclusive content on the Calm platform, which has a reputation for enhancing mental health awareness and practices.

Conclusion

This survey highlights the critical part that pets play in their owners' mental health, particularly during stressful situations. For many, turning to their pets can be a source of comfort and calm in an increasingly chaotic world. These findings not only affirm the importance of pets in our lives but also advocate for recognizing the healing potential of our relationships with them. As we continue to navigate stress in our daily lives, perhaps we should all take a moment to appreciate the quiet companionship our pets provide and the incredible benefits that come from spending time together.