How might mental health be improved by spending time with animals?
By Shavkat
@Shavkat (140980)
Philippines
August 12, 2025 5:44pm CST
I have to say that having chihuahuas helped me feel better, especially after my mother passed away. I chose to raise small puppies because my older dogs passed away shortly after my mother's passing. I found these chihuahuas to be really entertaining in many kinds of ways, and their primary purpose is companionship. Before, when I was younger, I was unaware of this. In fact, I grew up with a dog or two at home.
In what ways might interacting with animals enhance mental well-being?
Image Credit: cdn0.onehowto.com
11 people like this
10 responses
@AmbiePam (107595)
• United States
12 Aug
I have a Chihuahua myself, Sadie. I have had four chihuahuas, and they are calm, fun loving, and very sweet. People told me they were cranky and yappy, but that has not been my experience.
Animals help us learn patience, to give and accept love, to be calmer, to control some emotions, it’s just amazing what animal therapy can do.
I included a picture of my chihuahua.
3 people like this
@Deepizzaguy (116448)
• Lake Charles, Louisiana
13 Aug
Dogs bring friendship to human being is useful since the animal brings love to humans.
2 people like this
@Nakitakona (58443)
• Philippines
13 Aug
That's true we have cat and 2 dogs. I enjoy playing with them. It's stress-free
1 person likes this
@rsa101 (40524)
• Philippines
19 Aug
I’m really glad your chihuahuas have brought comfort and companionship, especially during such a difficult time. Pets truly have a way of filling empty spaces in our hearts. For me, I also find the same kind of calmness and comfort in my aquarium. Watching my pet fish swim gracefully among the plants helps clear my mind, ease stress, and even lift my mood on tough days. Caring for them and keeping the plants healthy gives me a sense of peace and focus—it’s like a little therapy corner at home.
Interacting with animals and pets in general can do so much for mental well-being. They provide companionship that eases loneliness, their presence lowers stress, and they bring joy in simple but meaningful ways. Whether it’s playful chihuahuas or the gentle rhythm of an aquarium, these companions help us cope, heal, and find balance in life.
@youless (113916)
• Guangzhou, China
13 Aug
Sure, I think having a pet can be beneficial to us. I heard that having fish or cat as pets will be good for the high blood pressure patients. Of course I think it's similar if you have other animals as pets. Having a pet will give you a peaceful mind. It's also good for the people who feel depressed.
1 person likes this
@allknowing (153953)
• India
13 Aug
It is considered a therapy and everyone is bound to benefit by it
1 person likes this
