Results of European study recognised by healthcare professionals
A survey by Boehringer Ingelheim and independent market research company, Ipsos, has revealed human health benefits in owning a pet.
Children with health issues and those with depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder or cardiac health complaints are said to receive the most benefit.
Vets were concluded to be the preferred point of contact for owners seeking information on the human-animal bond.
3,000 pet owners were included in the survey across five European countries (France, the UK, Germany, Italy and Spain). Those surveyed were split into three groups: healthy pet owners, pet owners with health issues and pet owners with children experiencing health concerns. 300 cat owners and 300 dog owners were surveyed from each country.
Main results of those surveyed include:
- Pet ownership led to a decreased need for relaxant, sedative and depressant medication
- 91 per cent of cat owners and 96 per cent of dog owners state that their pets have a positive impact on their daily lives
- 66 per cent consider their pets family members
- 55 per cent state that their pet improves relaxation and overall health
- 43 per cent declare an increase in physical exercise
- pet owners with health conditions share a greater emotional bond with their pet than that of healthy pet owners
- pet owners with children experiencing health conditions were most aware of the human-animal bond
- 70 per cent favour talking to their vet about the human-animal bond.
Further key highlights from the survey can be accessed at this link from the Boehringer Ingelheim website.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
