November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, a time to reflect on the various health benefits of owning a pet.

An estimated 68% of American households have a pet. The American Veterinary Medical Association defines the human-animal bond as “a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors essential to the health and wellbeing of both.”

The results of the March 2023 Healthy Minds Monthly Poll from the American Psychiatric Association show the many health benefits of owning pets. Of the 2,200 adults polled, 86% said their pets help reduce stress; provide unconditional love, support and companionship; offer a calming presence; and give them true friendship. When participants were asked about what worries them about having a pet, they said their pets’ health issues, health-related expenses and their pets aging and dying (58%).

Studies have also found the following benefits of owning a pet:

• They improve cardiovascular health, lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
• Dog owners are less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke than non-dog owners.
• They reduce stress levels.
• Pets increase physical activity.
• They reduce loneliness and depression and increase social interactions.
• People with pets have lower levels of cortisol (stress hormone) and increased levels of oxytocin, dopamine, prolactin and endorphins (the neurochemicals associated with happiness and connection).
• When working from home, owning a pet can help manage work-related stress and anxiety.

There are many studies on the human-animal bond being conducted by different organizations and universities, including at CSU.

HABRI – the Human Animal Bond Research Institute – is looking at the benefits of therapy dogs and fostering cats for improving the emotional health of older adults. Another HABRI study found classroom pets may help improve social skills and decrease problem behaviors in third and fourth graders.

Pet insurance is becoming increasingly common, and CSU has several partnerships with vendors. The Veterinary Teaching Hospital offers a 20% employee discount on most veterinary services (not including the pharmacy, for example), and also works with several pet insurance partners, facilitating the care and coverage clients desire for their pets.