How Animals Boost Our Mental Health

Proof That Love (with Fur) Really Is the Best Medicine

Pets are much more than companions in our life — they also boost our mental health in measurable ways! Studies have found that interacting with animals can lower stress hormones, decrease anxiety and depression, and raise oxytocin and dopamine, chemicals linked to bonding and happiness.  According to a survey by the American Psychiatric Association, pet guardians reported that their furry friends helped them in the following ways:

• 69% said their pets help reduce their stress and anxiety.
• 66% said their pets provide a helpful calming presence.
• 86% said their pets have a positive impact on their mental well-being.

In fact, just the act of petting or playing with a dog or cat is shown to have the ability to calm your mind, ease loneliness, and encourage movement and social connection. That’s why our Pet Hug Pack® visiting therapy animal teams have such a powerful impact at hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and beyond! And how our Shelter to Service program is able to harness this healing magic to train shelter dogs as psychiatric service animals and facility animals. Not to mention the overwhelming community footprint of the thousands of dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens adopted from Joybound every year!

But here’s the beautiful thing — it’s not a one-way street. While people experience profound mental health benefits from pets, the animals thrive too. Pets in stable, loving homes show reduced stress behaviors, greater confidence, and improved social skills. Every moment of affection, play, or quiet companionship strengthens that mutual trust and helps both human and animal heal together. It’s living proof that joy really does bound both ways.

For many people, the routines and connection that pets bring become powerful anchors during challenging times. Knowing another creature counts on you gives a sense of purpose, and pets often serve as nonjudgmental listeners in moments of stress or sadness. Over time, that steady presence can help build resilience, improve mood, and support emotional balance.

If you don’t currently have space in your life for a pet of your own, don’t fret. As American Psychiatric Association CEO and Medical Director Dr. Saul Levin said, “If pets are not an option for your family, but you are seeking that connection, there are many opportunities to volunteer with animals that may also benefit your life.”

Want to get involved? You can start Joybound’s online volunteer orientation process today to feel the impact of the human-animal bond for yourself – and make sure that bond is spread to everyone who needs it!