Could your pet be your wellbeing secret weapon?
In an era where people are prioritising personal wellness, the profound and positive impact pets can have on human wellbeing is becoming more and more evident.
According to the Southern Cross Healthy Futures Report, 68% of New Zealanders share their households with at least one pet, making us truly a nation of animal lovers1. In addition, the report found that 89% of pet owners believe that a pet offers great companionship.
These findings were echoed during our inaugural Southern Cross Pet Insurance Pawsies Awards, with thousands of pet owners across the country sharing what their pets mean to them and the difference they make to their wellbeing.
Pawsies Judge and Animal Behaviourist Mark Vette said that reading some of the entries reminded him of his own relationship with his pets.
Vette said, “these awards have highlighted how important pets are to people across the motu. No matter the size, breed, or if it is a cat or dog, New Zealanders’ bond with their pets is immense.”
One of the pets nominated, Harry the Cocker Spaniel, was described in his entry as “my mate”, with his owner saying “he is a great listener. As a volunteer firefighter Harry has listened to a lot of the calls we have been to and always provides me with support and love when I get back home from a bad one.”
Tory the Domestic Short Hair cat has also given comfort to her owner, whose partner is currently serving in the New Zealand Defence Force in a far flung country. “She’s always ready for a cuddle and a chat and she loves sleeping on people. With my partner deployed overseas, Tory helps keep me sane.”
Tory the Domestic Short Hair
The benefits are more than just companionship, with a Harvard study suggesting regular interaction with a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness (especially for senior pet owners), increase feelings of social support, and boost their human’s mood2.
Children can also benefit. Caring for a pet can help with self-esteem and self-confidence and teach them valuable life skills of empathy and relationship building.
These findings are echoed by Pawsies nominee, ‘Black Cat’; the school cat whose primary responsibility is the “wellbeing of our students on a daily basis. Black Cat is often found in the arms of a student, on the teacher’s chair in class or welcoming visitors on our sofa in the office.”
Black Cat the school cat
Willow the Cavachon is the definition of what a good dog can do for a family. Her Pawsies entry states, “She has literally changed the lives of our children”. Two of the family’s tamariki had suffered from extreme dog phobia for nearly 10 years, however, Willow’s tolerant, playful and affectionate behaviour won them over and helps calm their fears.
Willow the Cavachon
National Business Development Manager and former vet nurse Kerri Murray emphasises the responsibility of the relationship between a person and their pet.
"While the benefits of pet ownership are obvious, we must acknowledge that not everyone may be ready for the commitment a pet entails. There are a number of factors to consider, for example, your lifestyle, financial capabilities for food and medical care, and the time required for proper care before bringing a pet into their homes. It's crucial to ensure that both the pet and the owner are set up for a fulfilling and responsible relationship.”
[1] Southern Cross Healthy Futures Report 2024 – Healthy Futures
[2] Harvard Health Publishing: Harvard Medical School – The heartfelt benefits of pet ownership
