Examining the Relationship Between Pet-Ownership & Human Physical and Psychological Wellbeing

Abstract: Despite copious research into the association between pet-ownership and human wellbeing in general, empirical data is contradictory and research focusing on the effect of pet-ownership across the lifespan is fundamentally lacking. This study provides analysis and discussion on the relationship between pet-ownership in childhood & human physical and psychological wellbeing in young adulthood. One hundred and ten people extending in age from of 18 to 25 responded to a questionnaire related to their demography, pet-ownership, and physical & psychological health. Finding(s) showed no main effect of pet-ownership on physical or psychological health. Furthermore, no significant relation was found between attachment or social support from a childhood pet and ensuing physical or psychological health. Comprehensively more research is required to veritably establish a link between pet-ownership & human physical and psychological wellbeing.