By Dr Ganean Chetty Oertel — Veterinarian (BVSc)
For centuries, people have recognized the comfort and companionship that animals provided. Today, science is repeatedly confirming what pet owners have long known- animals can have a profound impact on human mental and emotional health. From reducing anxiety and depression to supporting individuals living with post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) and loneliness, therapy and companion animals are becoming valuable partners in mental health care.
What is Animal-Assisted Therapy?
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a structured, goal-oriented intervention that incorporates animals into the therapeutic treatment under the guidance of trained professionals. Unlike emotional support animals or household pets, therapy animals work alongside healthcare providers to help patients achieve physical, emotional, social or cognitive outcomes.
Dogs are the most commonly used animals, but horses, cats, rabbits, birds and even guinea pigs have been successfully integrated into therapeutic programs.
How Animals Affect the Human Brain
Human- animal interaction triggers several physiological changes that contribute to emotional well-being. Research has shown that spending time with animals can:
- Increase oxytocin levels- often referred to as the ‘bonding’ hormone.
- Lower cortisol levels- the body’s primary stress hormone.
- Reduce blood pressure and heart rate.
- Increase feelings of safety, comfort and social connection.
- Stimulate the release of dopamine and serotonin – which are neurotransmitters associated with happiness and emotional regulation.
These biological effects explain why interacting with animals can create feelings of calmness and emotional security.
Reducing Anxiety
Millions of people worldwide are affected by anxiety disorders. The ability of AAT to reduce symptoms of anxiety has been one of the most consistent findings during research. Animals offer a non-judgmental presence that can help individuals feel grounded during stressful periods. The act of simply petting or dog or cat has been shown to promote relaxation and decreases physiological markers of anxiety.
Therapy animals are being increasingly utilized in schools, hospitals, counseling centers and even airports to help reduce the stress of high-pressure environments. Animals can also serve as social facilitators for those experiencing social anxiety, making interactions with others feel less intimidating.
Supporting individuals with depression
Depression often results in feelings of hopelessness, isolation and a general lack of motivation. Companion animals can offer structure (through daily interactions like playing and walks), purpose (having a living being to care for) and emotional connection – factors that are protective against depression.
Daily pet care routines encourage physical activity and responsibility which helps individuals maintain a sense of normalcy and accomplishment. The unconditional affection provided by animals may also help diminish one’s feelings of loneliness and uplift one’s overall mood.
Numerous studies have found that pet ownership is associated with increased social support and improved psychological well-being, particularly among those living alone.
AAT and PTSD
PTSD can significantly affect emotional regulation, sleep, relationships and daily functioning. Therapy and service animals have become increasingly recognized as valuable support figures for individuals facing PTSD.
Animals can help by:
- Providing a sense of safety and security
- Interrupting anxiety and panic episodes
- Encouraging grounding during flashbacks
- Improving sleep quality
- Reducing hyper-vigilance and social withdrawal
Many trauma survivors report that working with therapy animals or service dogs helps them re-engage with daily life and build confidence in social settings.
Combating loneliness and social isolation
Loneliness has emerged as a significant public health concern, particularly among older adults, those living alone and those experiencing major life changes. Pets provide companionship and a sense of connection that buffers against feelings of isolation. Dog owners, in particular, often experience increased social interaction through walks, park visits and community activities.
For elderly people, animal-assisted programs in care facilities have been associated with improved mood, greater social engagements and reduced feelings of loneliness.
Benefits for children
Animal-assisted interventions have shown promising results for children facing emotional, developmental and behavioural challenges. Studies suggest that therapy animals can help children:
- Develop emotional regulation skills
- Improve self-esteem
- Reduce anxiety related to medical procedures
- Increase engagement during therapy sessions
- Enhance social and communication skills
Children often find it easier to trust animals than unfamiliar adults, which create opportunities for meaningful therapeutic progress.
The Human-Animal bond is more than just companionship
The relationship between humans and animals is truly unique. Animals offer acceptance without judgment, companionship without condition and comfort during difficult times. Whilst they do not replace mental healthcare professionals, they can complement treatment and contribute meaningfully to emotional and mental well-being.
As research continues to grow, the evidence increasingly supports what many pet owners already know: animals have the remarkable ability to heal hearts, reduce stress and improve our quality of life. In a world where mental health challenges are becoming more common, simply connecting with an animal may be one of the most accessible and powerful forms of support available.
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