Pets are the unsung heroes of the UK, providing emotional support to their owners during tough times such as bereavements, break-ups and stressful workdays, according to half of pet owners.
A survey of 2,000 cat or dog owners revealed that their furry companions often lift their spirits when they’re feeling low.
The respondents shared that their pets have been a source of comfort during illness, after a challenging day at work, or following a disagreement.
Simple gestures like hugging their pet or being welcomed home by them can significantly boost their mood.
Interestingly, one in five got a pet to motivate them to exercise more, while 16 per cent sought a sense of responsibility and 14 per cent hoped to combat loneliness.
And it seems they’ve made an impact – while nearly half of Brits believe their pets have positively impacted their physical health, their four-legged friends have also helped many manage feelings of stress, loneliness and anxiety.
The study found that 54 per cent view spending time with their pets as therapeutic, and a substantial three quarters believe that owning a cat or dog has improved their mental health.
An impressive 43 per cent credit their pets’ companionship for making a significant difference in their lives, and over a third (32 per cent) feel they would have experienced loneliness if not for their pet.
The study was conducted on behalf of pet care experts Purina, who have initiated a campaign to highlight the invaluable support pets offer to individuals in need.
Calum Macrae, CEO of Purina UK & Ireland, expressed: “We believe that pets are absolutely the UK’s hidden support network they really are the ones there by our side, often when we need them most.”
“Harnessing that power in the pet-human bond, creates tangible benefits to people’s wellbeing. As well as in everyday households, we see this truly come to life in the work we do to help our amazing charity partners.”
“Like Cats Protection and their Lifeline service a specialist cat fostering service for those fleeing domestic abuse; and Canine Partners, who partner highly trained assistance dogs with people with physical disabilities, providing them with greater independence and increased quality of life.”
“It is life-changing and that’s why we have an ambition to help one million people in vulnerable situations improve their health and wellbeing by 2030.”
England football star Lucy Bronze MBE, proud owner of adorable West Highland Terrier Narla, has joined forces with Purina for the campaign. She gushed: “Narla has been the best thing ever for me – being a footballer is an absolute dream come ‘true’, and I couldn’t do it without her by my side.”
“Coming home to a wagging tail and a loving companion after a long day is the best feeling, and I feel so lucky to have Narla’s unwavering support through all life’s highs and lows.”