Benefits of the Bond

Human/Animal Bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and other animals that is influenced by behaviours that are essential to the health and well-being of both. 

Did you know?

58% of Canadian households report they own at least one dog or cat
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The Canadian dog population is at 7.7 million

The Canadian cat population is at 8.3 million 

95% of Canadians consider their pets family

Pet owners over the age of 65 make 30% fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets

There are many health benefits of owning a pet.  They can increase the opportunity to exercise, get outside, and socialize.  Regular walking and playing with your pets can decrease stress, anxiety, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels which improves cardiovascular health.  Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship. People with pets are more calm and relaxed. 

The benefits of pets for older adults is that they can find meaning and joy in their life, they maintain a social network, and it can also boost their vitality.  Pets can also help adults with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia by decreasing stress, a source of positive nonverbal communication that leads to decreased aggressive behaviour.  

​There are also benefits of pets for children.  Children who grow up with pets have less risk of allergies and asthma.  They learn responsibility, compassion, and empathy.  Pets can also ease separation anxiety for the child when the parents aren’t around.  Kids who are emotionally attached to their pets are better able to build relationships with other people.  Having a pet can also stimulate a child’s imagination and curiosity.  

Animals are becoming apart of our lives more than they ever have been and it is really good to know that humans and animals are both benefitting from the interactions of Human/Animal bonding.