The benefits of human-companion animal interaction: a review

Barker, S B and Wolen, A R

Journal of Veterinary Medical Education (2008) 35: 487–495

DOI: 10.3138/jvme.35.4.487

Abstract

This article provides a review of research published since 1980 on the benefits of human-companion animal interaction. Studies focusing on the benefits of pet ownership are presented first, followed by research on the benefits of interacting with companion animals that are not owned by the subject (animal-assisted activities). While most of the published studies are descriptive and have been conducted with convenience samples, a promising number of controlled studies support the health benefits of interacting with companion animals. Future research employing more rigorous designs and systematically building upon a clearly defined line of inquiry is needed to advance our knowledge of the benefits of human-companion animal interaction.

Citation

Barker, S. B., & Wolen, A. R. (2008). The benefits of human-companion animal interaction: a review. Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, 35(4), 487–495. https://doi.org/10.3138/jvme.35.4.487 Animals, Humans, Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, Health Status, Bonding, Cardiovascular Diseases/psychology, Congresses as Topic, Domestic/psychology, Human-Pet, Mental Disorders/psychology/therapy, Mental Health, Ownership, Social Support

Keywords

• Animals
• Humans
• Dogs
• Cats
• Rabbits
• Health Status
• Bonding
• Cardiovascular Diseases/psychology
• Congresses as Topic
• Domestic/psychology
• Human-Pet
• Mental Disorders/psychology/therapy
• Mental Health
• Ownership
• Social Support