The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well‐Being The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well‐Be

Table 1. Health related benefits of companion animal ownership Health benefit Benefits to owners Patients most affected Psychological health Animal assisted therapy (AAT) People of all ages with various disorders    AAT with dogs and/or fish can increase morale, eating habits and overall health in Alzheimer patients AAT increased attendance, decreased violent behaviour, and increased language and social skills in children with ADHD In clinical settings, AAT reduces stress in children Mental health   Owners are less likely to experience loneliness and depression, as pets provide social support (with similar effects to human-human relationships), and provide a sense of purpose Older people with pets are less stressed by major adverse life events than nonpet owners Child development   Pets may play a role in the social- emotional development of children, including self esteem, autonomy and empathy for others Children who own pets show increased trust, community feeling, safety, self confidence and self enhancement Adults (particularly during times of stress or loss of a loved one), the elderly, socially isolated, chronically ill (physical or mental) or those with a terminal illness, and/or physical impairment Children and adolescents

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