How Animals Help Us Feel Better

The Science Behind the Calm: How Animals Support Your Wellbeing

There’s something undeniably soothing about being around animals. The rhythmic purr of a cat, the wag of a happy dog’s tail, or the gentle gaze of a horse can instantly make us feel calmer. But this isn’t just “warm feelings” — science shows that interacting with animals triggers real changes in the body that reduce stress, regulate the nervous system, and support mental and physical wellbeing.

Let’s look at how animals help us feel better — and some simple ways you can bring more of those benefits into your life.

1. Lowering Stress Hormones

One of the best-documented effects of spending time with animals is a reduction in cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Cortisol rises when we’re under pressure — from work, relationships, or daily life — and high levels over time can weaken immunity, disrupt sleep, and affect mood.

Research shows that petting animals, especially those we’re bonded with, leads to immediate drops in cortisol while raising oxytocin — often called the “love hormone.” Oxytocin promotes feelings of trust, safety, and calm (PubMed study).

2. Activating the “Rest and Digest” State

Our bodies switch between two nervous system modes: sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest). Living in “fight-or-flight” long-term can contribute to stress, fatigue, and inflammation.

Interacting with animals can gently shift us into the parasympathetic mode. Stroking a pet, watching fish swim, or grooming a horse are repetitive, mindful movements that signal safety to the brain. The result? Slower breathing, reduced heart rate, and a sense of ease — the conditions your body needs to repair and restore.

3. Supporting Physical Health

These calming effects have real, measurable benefits. Studies link animal interaction with:

• Lower blood pressure and improved heart rate variability

• Reduced perception of pain, especially in chronic conditions

• Better immune function, thanks to lower stress and inflammation

• More physical activity (e.g. dog owners who walk regularly)

Even short sessions of animal contact have been shown to create noticeable improvements in wellbeing (NHS mental health resource including other methods for mental well-being).

4. Boosting Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

Animals offer a rare kind of non-judgmental presence. They don’t care about deadlines or appearances — and that unconditional acceptance can be incredibly healing.

Time spent with animals has been shown to:

• Ease anxiety and depression

• Reduce loneliness and isolation

• Improve emotional regulation in stressful moments

• Enhance focus and clarity, particularly in children and older adults

It’s no surprise that animal-assisted therapy is now used in hospitals, schools, and trauma recovery programmes worldwide (PubMed review).

5. Simple Ways to Bring Animals Into Your Life

You don’t need to own a pet to benefit. Try:

• Visiting a friend with a pet and offering a walk or playtime

• Volunteering at a local animal shelter

• Exploring equine therapy or local animal-assisted wellbeing programmes

• Watching calming animal videos — research shows even these can reduce stress

• Being fully present with your own pet (no phone, just five minutes of connection)

It’s less about the activity itself and more about being present in the moment.

A Natural Support for Your Health

Our bond with animals is more than emotional — it’s physiological. From lowering stress hormones to calming the nervous system and lifting mood, animals provide a natural, accessible way to support health.

While not a replacement for medical or therapeutic care, time with animals can be a valuable complement to other lifestyle practices — from movement and nutrition to, yes, even chiropractic care like the services we offer here at Avalon Chiropractic in Belfast!