The Complex Relationship Between Pet Ownership and Wellbeing
Many pet owners believe that welcoming a furry friend into their lives is one of the best decisions they’ve ever made. However, recent research challenges this commonly held belief, suggesting that the so-called “pet effect” may not deliver the long-term emotional and physical benefits many expect.
The study, conducted during the height of the pandemic, explored the impact of acquiring or losing a pet on individuals’ wellbeing. It involved 65 participants who adopted a pet and 75 who lost one in Hungary. Over six months, these individuals completed questionnaires about their mental health and overall satisfaction with life.
Initial Joy, Long-Term Challenges
While the initial period after getting a new pet—especially a dog—did bring some short-term improvements in mood and happiness, these benefits were limited. According to the findings, the positive effects typically lasted only up to four months. After that, the researchers observed a decline in several key areas, including calmness, activity levels, cheerfulness, and life satisfaction.
One of the most surprising discoveries was that losing a pet did not significantly affect the emotional wellbeing of its owner. This suggests that the bond between humans and their pets might not be as strong as many believe.
Judit Mokos, one of the study’s authors from Eötvös Loránd University, noted that the assumption that dogs can alleviate loneliness is not supported by the data. “Dog adoption is often promoted as a solution for elderly and lonely people,” she said. “However, our research suggests that dogs do not provide a real solution to loneliness; rather, they make the new owners more anxious.”
Why the Initial Joy Fades
The team proposed that the initial boost in happiness may be due to high expectations and the novelty of having a new pet. For the first few months, these expectations combined with the excitement of a new companion might mask the challenges of pet ownership. However, as the novelty wears off, unmet expectations and the daily demands of caring for a pet can lead to frustration and stress.
Dogs, in particular, come with significant responsibilities. Their shorter lifespans mean that owners may face the loss of their pet sooner than expected. Additionally, owning a dog can complicate housing choices, require arrangements for care during vacations, and pose challenges related to obedience and behavior.
The Impact of Cats and Other Pets
While the study focused primarily on dogs, it also found that acquiring a cat had a different impact. New cat owners experienced a decrease in activity levels, possibly because they spent more time at home. However, cat owners remained more active than dog owners, likely because cats are generally easier to leave alone compared to dogs.
Eniko Kubinyi, another author of the study, highlighted that most people living with a companion animal do not experience lasting emotional benefits. “It is possible that the dynamics of the pandemic led many to make impulsive choices against their long-term interest,” she said. “Only certain groups—like devoted animal lovers or older adults living alone—truly benefit from pets in stressful times.”
Contradictory Findings and Ongoing Debate
Despite these findings, previous research has shown that many dog owners feel a deep emotional connection with their pets. A survey of 700 owners found that they believed their dog loved them more than anyone else and provided unmatched companionship. Another study even suggested that having a pet could boost mood as much as an additional £70,000 per year.
In addition, a separate study found that the emotional benefits of pet ownership are comparable to those of being married. Dr. Adelina Gschwandtner, the lead author of the latest study, emphasized that while the research highlights the challenges of pet ownership, it also acknowledges the positive impact pets can have on human wellbeing.
“Pets care for us and there is a significant monetary value associated with their companionship,” she said. “This research answers the question whether overall pet companions are good for us with a resounding ‘Yes.'”
Conclusion
The relationship between pet ownership and human wellbeing is complex and multifaceted. While pets can bring joy and companionship, the demands of their care must also be considered. As the debate continues, it is clear that the decision to adopt a pet should be made thoughtfully, taking into account both the potential benefits and the long-term responsibilities involved.
