In an increasingly fast-paced world, pets remind us of the importance of slowing down and living in the present. The look of a dog, the purr of a cat or the simple presence of an animal have the power to calm, comfort and refocus. They help us regulate emotions, reduce loneliness and reinforce a sense of purpose.

But for these benefits to become lasting, it is essential to recognize and value the emotional and social resources that arise from this unique bond between humans and animals.

If you don’t already have an animal and are thinking about adopting

The bond between humans and animals brings challenges — such as costs, time, guilt and even grief. A healthy relationship begins with awareness and preparation.

Before adopting, consider:

• Choose the animal in an informed way, considering time, space and lifestyle.
• Ensure physical and emotional well-being: food, veterinary care, stimulation and affection.
• Respect natural needs: rest, exercise and interaction.
• Promote empathy and education about animal care in the community.
• Also respect those who do not have animals and shared spaces.

Adopting conscientiously is the first step towards a healthy and happy bond, both for you and the animal.

Attachment — the emotional connection

Attachment is born from time, care and dedication. Transform moments with your animal into conscious pauses: take a deep breath, be present and disconnect from your worries.

Simple gestures — a touch, a look or a joke — strengthen the connection. Notice how your mood influences the animal… and how theirs also affects yours.

A secure attachment promotes balance and emotional stability, while very intense bonds can generate greater vulnerability. The ideal is an affectionate but balanced connection.

Humanization — empathy and balance

It is natural to see the animal as a friend, confidant or family member. This empathy strengthens emotional well-being and reduces isolation, but it must be experienced with balance.

Animals have their own language and needs. Avoid projecting excessive human emotions — this can cause frustration when the animal doesn’t react as you expect. The healthiest connection is realistic, respectful and reciprocal.

Ensuring the animal’s comfort, safety and health is essential so that it also promotes the owner’s well-being.

Commitment — responsible care

Commitment is the practical side of loving animals. It involves time, dedication and investment throughout the animal’s life.

Ask yourself if you are truly willing to adjust your routine to support your pet and how committed you are to their well-being.

Make this commitment with balance — taking care of too much or feeling constant guilt can generate stress. Plan time, costs and resources.

Integration — the animal in the daily routine

Integration shows how much the animal is part of your routine. The more present it is, the greater the contribution it will make to your emotional balance.

• Routine: regular times for meals and walks create structure and well-being.
• Company: having the animal nearby when studying, working or relaxing conveys calm and security.
• Family: involving children, elderly people or dependent people in care strengthens bonds, empathy and joy.

Practical tips

• Set aside 5 minutes a day to practice mindfulness with your animal.
• Cultivate an affectionate bond, but with respect and autonomy for both.
• Plan time and costs — a healthy commitment is always sustainable.
• Play, walk and take care of your animal every day, even if it’s for a short time.
• At the weekend, discover green places or do something new together.

Small daily gestures create big results - they promote emotional regulation, increase the feeling of tranquility and contribute to an overall improvement in well-being and quality of life.

References

Brooks, H. L., Rushton, K., Lovell, K., Bee, P., Walker, L., Grant, L., & Rogers, A. (2018). The power of support from companion animals for people living with mental health problems: A systematic review and narrative synthesis of the evidence. BMC Psychiatry, 18(1), 31. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-018-1613-2

Goma, A. A., & Kieson, E. (2025). Investigating how the human–animal bond shapes pet well-being in later life from the owner’s perception. Veterinary Sciences, 12(8), 713. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080713 Human Animal Bond Research Institute. (2022). HABSCORE theoretical framework: Measuring the human–animal bond. HABRI. https://habri.org/assets/uploads/HABSCORE-Factsheet.pdf

Lass-Hennemann, J., Schäfer, S. K., Sopp, M. R., & Michael, T. (2022). The relationship between attachment to pets and mental health: The shared link via attachment to humans. BMC Psychiatry, 22(1), 586. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-022-04199-1