The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well‐Being The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well‐Be | Page 8

information that may inform or influence management of that patient. Talking
about pets may also facilitate discussion about health and lifestyle and
promote rapport.
Health professionals may wish to consider the following when discussing pets
with their patients:
 Does the patient have any health concerns that may be improved by
positive pet interaction?
 Once pet ownership has been established it is necessary to determine
the patient's level of attachment (eg. asking how much time they spend
with their pet). It may also be relevant to explore factors that inhibit a
positive human-pet dynamic (eg. pet behavioural problems, injury or
time constraints)
 Highlight the health benefits that can be gained by pet interaction and
suggest ideas for increasing quality interaction. For example, assist
patients wanting to increase physical activity by setting small goals ('try
taking your dog for a walk around the block once each day'). Patients
that would benefit from social interaction could be encouraged to join
an animal-related club or society or to use public dog parks and walking
trails
 For vulnerable populations it is important to check that pet care
arrangements are organised for times when the patient is absent for
medical reasons. In some cases, GPs and other health professionals can
become advocates on behalf of patients who wish to become pet owners
(eg. housing authorities).
Even though 53% of people without a household pet would like to own one in
the future,32 there are many reasons why pet ownership is not possible,
including lifestyle factors and financial constraints.1,33 It would not be
appropriate for a health professional to recommend or 'prescribe' the
purchase of a pet as this has ethical and legal implications. For instance, it may
be beyond the scope of a GP's role to ascertain the patient's history of pet
ownership, ability to care for an animal, living conditions and financial
situation. In addition, they risk recommending the wrong pet (or breed),