May is National Pet Month

Approximately 72% of American households own at least one pet.

The human-animal bond (HAB) is defined as a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals, influenced by behaviors essential to the health and well-being of both (American Veterinary Medical Association, 2019). 

Scientific research has increasingly documented the positive impacts of this bond on human physical, psychological, and social health. Protecting this bond in emergencies and disasters has been shown to improve community resilience and recovery. Community Animal Response Teams (CARTs) train volunteers to assist the animal component of response, with the main objective of protecting the human animal bond.

For most pet owners, the psychological health benefits of interacting with a pet are immediately evident. They include reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression and reduced incidence of loneliness. This is especially true for seniors and for those with diminished peer relationships.

Physical benefits include improved cardiovascular health. Dogs in particular can induce

lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol, and decreased cardiovascular disease - mainly via the increased physical activity associated with regular dog walking. Rain or shine, dogs need to go for walks, horses need to be fed and cleaned up after, and chicken eggs need to be gathered.   

Early life exposure to pets may lead to improved immune system development and decreased likelihood of allergies and asthma. Anecdotally, children who have to care for pets at a young age develop better executive functioning skills.

The social health benefits of pet ownership include enhanced social interactions and community belonging.

Dog walking leads to more social interactions and a greater sense of community. Those who enjoy horses often share a barn community. Therapy and service animals help  those with disabilities, enhancing independence and quality of life.  

In addition, pet ownership is associated with greater empathy, social competence, and reduced behavioral problems in children.

Companion animals and horses have been shown to provide emotional and social benefits for children with autism and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Most of the scientific data associated with the human animal bond is geared towards companion animals. However, similar benefits are anecdotally associated with many different species of animals, including horses, livestock, reptiles and birds. Many rural counties host a myriad of species per property, and the interspecies interactions have their own amazing benefits for both the animals and their humans. Preserving those bonds is often a high priority for pet owners.

The human-animal bond provides a wide range of scientifically supported benefits to psychological, physical, and social health. Protecting that bond in times of disaster is a key mission of local CARTs. 

In honor of your pet, and all the joy they bring, consider supporting or volunteering with a CART in your area.