Pet Ownership and Mental Health

Many years ago, the relationship between humans and animals was primarily based on work and security. Over the past 15,000 years, this bond has evolved into something more complex, particularly with the increasing domestication of animals.

Pet adoption, however, doesn’t appear to be evenly distributed across ethnic lines. According to the Michigan State University, 68% of American households own a pet, yet only 34% of Black households have one, the lowest of any ethnic group in the country. The Pew Research Center reports that more than half of pet owners consider their pets as much a part of their family as human members.

The lower pet ownership rate in our community may be linked to the economic implications associated with them, which could further stretch the family’s limited resources. However, not owning a pet may mean missing out on the physical and mental benefits that pets can offer.

The positive effects of owning pets on mental health

Available data shows that dogs are more favored by many families compared to other pets. According to Pew Research, 49% of pet owners say they own only dogs. Caring for a pet can positively impact your mental health in different ways.

Increase in physical activity

Part of a dog routine to keep them healthy is taking them out on a walk—which also means that you will be indirectly exercising with them. Several studies, including a post on Harvard Health, show that 15 minutes of running or a 1-hour walk daily, lowers the risk of major depression.

Pets offer companionship

One of the significant risk factors of depression is loneliness. Pets can fill the vacuum, especially for aging Black parents whose children are in faraway cities trying to make ends meet. The companionship offered by pets can reduce anxiety and its negative mental health impact.

Encourages socialization

When you take your dog or other pets for a walk or to a park, they will most likely start playing with other pets which also encourages you to interact with the other pet owners. Lasting friendships can be formed through camaraderie which can significantly boost your mental health.

Decrease stress

Pets are often good listeners and cozy companions. The interaction between humans and animals has been shown to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Stress can exacerbate conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.

Offers a sense of purpose

Caring for pets, including feeding them and sticking to their daily routine, can lead to a sense of accomplishment. This sense of achievement can boost the daily secretion of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and motivation. It can help aging Black parents find purpose in life, which is often lacking in people suffering from depression.

Factors to consider before adopting a pet

While owning a pet is physically, mentally, and emotionally rewarding, it requires proper preparation so that you don’t end up feeling overwhelmed by the commitment required to keep them healthy. Here are important factors to consider before getting a pet.

Type of pet: If you don’t feel comfortable around cats, then it doesn’t feel right to have a cat as a pet. Your pet has to be an animal you love. Even when you are comfortable with cats, you still need to research the breed or species that you can easily care for.
Budget: Once you know the breed of the pet you want, research how much attention it needs and the type of food it eats to ensure it aligns with your availability and budget.
Climate: Furry animals may have a hard time adapting to tropical climates. Ensure the pet you want to adopt can cope with your prevailing weather conditions.
Veterinary care and supplies: Pets need frequent veterinary examinations. Therefore, it is important to ensure you have a reliable veterinarian in close proximity. Likewise, make sure you can easily stock up on your pet supplies or have access to online retailers.
Legality: Before adopting a pet, study your local laws and regulations to know what pets you can own and the criteria for such ownership.

Once you have answered the key questions about the type of pet you want and certified that climate, vet attention, and supplies would not be an issue, it is time to either adopt or purchase your pet.

If you choose to adopt, search for local shelters like the North Shore Animal League America or Best Friends Animal Society. Adopting is a great way of giving admirable animals a home. Alternatively, you can purchase from a breeder. If you go this route, ensure the breeder follows ethical practices. Before bringing a pet home, spend time with them to ensure you two are compatible.

The lower rate of pet ownership in Black households reflects broader economic and systemic limitations faced by our communities that deprive us the physical and mental benefits of pet ownership. Increasing pet ownership within our community can be a step towards improving physical activity, emotional support, companionship, and overall wellbeing. Addressing the limitations in pet adoption in Black communities can contribute to public health and strengthen the bond between families and their animals.

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