Pets offer health benefits with or without a pandemic

The world of pets has changed over the years. When I ask my father about his dogs growing up, he mentions guard dogs at his dad’s mechanic shop, who were only allowed outside or in the kitchen, and never on the couch. Flash forward to my childhood dog who slept in our bed every night and was fed gourmet pet food.

I believe pets are some of the best forms of companionship and they often become family members. During the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, pets were especially beneficial.

My mother was working from home alone for almost a year with her only officemate being my dog. Although it is unusual to have to walk and feed your “coworker,” having that “person” around kept her sane and I know many people also felt that way.


An Australian study showed that during the COVID-19 lockdown, owning a dog was protection against stress and depression during the isolation. One reason is that dogs encourage a routine.

For example, they require owners to wake up at 7 a.m. for a walk, feed them at multiple exact times of day, and of course, lots of cuddling. This allows socialization if you walk with neighbors and exercise, both of which improve mood. It also helped to keep life feeling normal, as our animals have no idea what a pandemic is, except that we are home more than usual.

Another study showed human-animal interactions with dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, goats, hamsters, and even crickets lead to decreased depression, loneliness, anxiety, and improved social skills. As far as physical health, animals can lower blood pressure and lower the risk of complications for those with cardiovascular disease.

Pets have been shown to improve behavior in people with dementia, as well. Another study found that having a pet as a companion lowered the increase in both depression and loneliness.

There are also multiple benefits for children in caring for a pet such as helping them be calm, and teaching them responsibility. Even aquariums and watching fish can benefit our well-being by increasing relaxation and stress-reduction. So, furry friends not your thing? Maybe find a fish friend to watch swim around!

****

Community Caregivers Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that provides nonmedical services, including transportation and caregiver support, at no charge to residents of Guilderland, Bethlehem, Altamont, New Scotland, Berne, Knox, and the city of Albany through a strong volunteer pool of dedicated individuals with a desire to assist their neighbors. Its funding is derived in part from the Albany County Department for Aging, the New York State Office for the Aging, and the United Administration on Aging. Community Caregivers also provides services by phone in Rensselaer County to reduce isolation and make referrals for other needed services.

Editor’s note: Meghan Goddard is a Community Caregivers’ student volunteer, slated to graduate from Albany Medical College in 2024.