The Pets and Wellbeing Study Program
The Pets and Wellbeing Study Program
A global research project, PAWS aims to be the world’s largest international study program into the impact of cats and dogs on human mental health and wellbeing. Test
A global research project, PAWS aims to be the world’s largest international study program into the impact of cats and dogs on human mental health and wellbeing. Test
Read Press Release
The Pets and Wellbeing Study Program
The Pets and Wellbeing Study Program
A global research project, PAWS aims to be the world’s largest international study program into the impact of cats and dogs on human mental health and wellbeing. Test
A global research project, PAWS aims to be the world’s largest international study program into the impact of cats and dogs on human mental health and wellbeing. Test
Read Press Release
The PAWS program, led by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in collaboration with leading academic institutions and experts, will explore the relationships between pets and their owners and the role pets play in wellbeing across multiple geographies and age groups.
Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years.
Today, Waltham scientists research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners globally to drive innovation creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence.
Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, Waltham continues to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.
Over the past 60 years, Waltham scientists have shared their scientific expertise through over 1700 publications, including more than 600 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years.
Today, Waltham scientists research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners globally to drive innovation creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence.
Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, Waltham continues to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.
Over the past 60 years, Waltham scientists have shared their scientific expertise through over 1700 publications, including more than 600 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years.
Today, Waltham scientists research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners globally to drive innovation creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence.
Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, Waltham continues to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.
Over the past 60 years, Waltham scientists have shared their scientific expertise through over 1700 publications, including more than 600 peer-reviewed journal articles.
PAWS Program
The program aims to bring deeper insight and scientific data into the mutual benefits of the human-animal bond, including how pets enrich lives across all ages and walks of life.
35K+
people involved
20+
countries participating
Featured Studies
Wellbeing has become an increasing priority in our daily lives with 45% of people across 31 countries identifying mental health as their top health concern. At the same time, global anxiety and stress levels are rising, affecting over 301 million people worldwide. A growing body of evidence shows that pets can have a positive impact on mental health, underscoring the powerful potential of human-animal interaction to enhance wellbeing.
AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Featured Studies
Wellbeing has become an increasing priority in our daily lives with 45% of people across 31 countries identifying mental health as their top health concern. At the same time, global anxiety and stress levels are rising, affecting over 301 million people worldwide. A growing body of evidence shows that pets can have a positive impact on mental health, underscoring the powerful potential of human-animal interaction to enhance wellbeing.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Featured Studies
Wellbeing has become an increasing priority in our daily lives with 45% of people across 31 countries identifying mental health as their top health concern. At the same time, global anxiety and stress levels are rising, affecting over 301 million people worldwide. A growing body of evidence shows that pets can have a positive impact on mental health, underscoring the powerful potential of human-animal interaction to enhance wellbeing.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
- AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.AdultsAnimal TypeLocationCanine companionship and the loneliness epidemicPartner: University of MichiganFeasibility study examining the effectiveness of interacting with a therapy dog in improving loneliness and related health outcomes in older adults hospitalized for 5 or more days.
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats
UK
Cats and the Good Life
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
To assess changes in health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and humans following pet adoption
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
The Impact of Pet Adoption on Humans and Animals
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine
To evaluate real time thought patterns, and loneliness and stress measures before and after pet adoption over time
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults, Elderly
Cats, Dogs
Global
Pets, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Diverse Populations
University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Evaluating the impacts of pets and pet interactions on human mental health and wellbeing in geographically diverse and older adult populations
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
USA
Pet Acquisition, Mental Health, and Socioeconomic status
CALM/ YouGov
CALM Pets and Wellbeing Survey
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Adults
Cats, Dogs
Global
Calm Pets and Wellbeing Survey
University of Liverpool
Cats and the Good Life: exploring in depth ‘feel good’ and ‘caring’ benefits and drawbacks of cat ownership, as compared to previous findings for dog ownership.
Human Animal Interaction at Mars
For more than [INSERT] years, we have sought to better understand the unique benefits of the human-animal bond. Through these efforts, Mars contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between humans and animals, promoting the development of interventions and practices with mutual benefit.
Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years. Today, we research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners to drive innovation, creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence. Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, we continue to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.
Learn More
Pets Help People and Cities Thrive. Science tells us that when people have a pet, they tend to get more exercise, report less loneliness and stress, and have stronger social ties. That’s probably why more people than ever before see pets as family. They make our lives better, and we want to spend as much time with them as we can.
The BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ program helps cities be pet-friendly so more people can enjoy the benefits of a life with pets. It was created by Mars Petcare and includes a playbook for cities, an assessment tool, a city certification program, and free online resources.
Learn More
Human Animal Interaction at Mars
For more than [INSERT] years, we have sought to better understand the unique benefits of the human-animal bond. Through these efforts, Mars contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between humans and animals, promoting the development of interventions and practices with mutual benefit.
Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years. Today, we research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners to drive innovation, creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence. Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, we continue to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.
Learn More
Pets Help People and Cities Thrive. Science tells us that when people have a pet, they tend to get more exercise, report less loneliness and stress, and have stronger social ties. That’s probably why more people than ever before see pets as family. They make our lives better, and we want to spend as much time with them as we can.
The BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ program helps cities be pet-friendly so more people can enjoy the benefits of a life with pets. It was created by Mars Petcare and includes a playbook for cities, an assessment tool, a city certification program, and free online resources.
Learn More
Human Animal Interaction at Mars
For more than [INSERT] years, we have sought to better understand the unique benefits of the human-animal bond. Through these efforts, Mars contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between humans and animals, promoting the development of interventions and practices with mutual benefit.
Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years. Today, we research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners to drive innovation, creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence. Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, we continue to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.
Learn More
Pets Help People and Cities Thrive. Science tells us that when people have a pet, they tend to get more exercise, report less loneliness and stress, and have stronger social ties. That’s probably why more people than ever before see pets as family. They make our lives better, and we want to spend as much time with them as we can.
The BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ program helps cities be pet-friendly so more people can enjoy the benefits of a life with pets. It was created by Mars Petcare and includes a playbook for cities, an assessment tool, a city certification program, and free online resources.
Learn More