Some extra help

Beyond Anecdote: Is there a positive pet effect?

There is a considerable amount of research into, and evidence for, the use of animals for therapeutic purposes in specific settings. However, the research into the impact of pet ownership for the average person is less clear. Plenty of studies have supported the notion of Zooeyia (the human health benefits of companion animals), with impacts including better self-esteem, increased happiness and life satisfaction, more adaptive attachment, better health, fewer doctor visits, reduced blood pressure and lower levels of loneliness.

Pet therapy is a broad term that includes animal-assisted therapy and other animal-assisted activities. Animal-assisted therapy is a growing field that uses animals to help people recover from or better cope with health problems including mental health disorders.

That is where Harlow and Honey play their part. Whilst not yet graduated to recognised therapy pets they love to play their part.

Their breed is the Australian Mist, a shorthair created by crossing the Abyssinian with the Burmese. The Abyssinian contributed to the breed's lively personality and ticked coat; meanwhile, the Burmese lent its easy-going nature and softly shaded colours.

Whilst we do our best to isolate Honey and Harlow from the consulting room, please do let us know if you have an allergy to felines.

Excerpts from (with thanks) Sarah Monk, November 2019. The Positive Psychology of Pets