Many pet owners find joy and healing in their time spent with their furry companions. Beyond personal experiences, recent research supports the idea that pets have a significant positive effect on mental health and overall well-being, a phenomenon known as the “pet effect.”
Health Matters interviewed Dr. Melissa Peskin, a psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and a clinical assistant professor of psychology at Weill Cornell Medicine. She shared insights on how pets contribute to mental health.
Boosting Connection Through Oxytocin
Research shows that eye contact between dogs and their owners significantly increases oxytocin levels in both parties. Oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” helps build trust and bonds between individuals. In the study, oxytocin levels rose by up to 130% in dogs and 300% in their owners. This process is similar to the bonding that occurs between mothers and their babies.
“Oxytocin promotes connection and affiliation,” explains Dr. Peskin. “Dogs have adapted this evolutionary mechanism, initially meant for parent-child bonding, to strengthen their bond with humans. This ability to activate the oxytocin feedback loop is quite remarkable.”
Stress Management Through Pet Interaction
Physical interaction with pets, such as cuddling or playing, has been linked to stress relief, according to Dr. Peskin. Petting a dog can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, while increasing endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of happiness. Additional studies indicate that spending time with dogs can also help reduce blood pressure and heart rate.
