U.S. HEALTH RESOURCES AND SERVICES

Humans have longed for love and attention since the dawn of their existence. As socially-active and socially-minded beings, humans need interpersonal contact, be it with only one person or a whole group. If they do not manage to establish these contacts, negative consequences may arise that will ultimately push them to the brink of extinction. Humans do not naturally look for superficial bonds, but rather appreciate deep relationships that might eventually give rise to friendships. However, this requires building confidence, which can be a rather time-intensive process. Many elderly people simply are not able to establish new social contacts and the subsequent strong bonds when trying to compensate for the loss of their partners or the transition to retirement. However, they long for an intimate and loving companionship. A pet can be such a companion. In most cases, pets can satisfy both the longing for company and the desire for affection.

Pet ownership may also provide emotional protection from the stresses and strains of life (the ‘buffer’ effect) and/or it may encourage a more active lifestyle through dog walking. Compared to those who do not own pets, pet owners report fewer doctor visits and have improved survival following heart attack.

To some people, a pet is ‘just’ an animal. However, to a pet lover a pet is a friend, true partner, and loyal companion. All too frequently the companionship of a pet is underestimated or belittled, even though pets are often intimate companions for many elderly people. They help them fight off loneliness and solitude and continue their activity. To many elderly people, their animal friend means joy and quality of life. As a consequence, relationships between humans and animals should always be respected and never underestimated.