Abstract

SILVA, Isabel  and  JOLLUSKIN, Glória. Is relationship with pets associated with the health of portuguese adults?. Psic., Saúde & Doenças [online]. 2021, vol.22, n.1, pp.76-89.  Epub Apr 30, 2021. ISSN 1645-0086.  https://doi.org/10.15309/21psd220108.

This cross-sectional study aimed to analyse whether having a pet and how the owner relates to it may be associated with differences in health. 263 adults were studied, 82.82% of whom had pets and 17.18% who did not, responded to a protocol that aimed to assess sociodemographic variables, quality of the owner-pet relationship and health-related variables. The results reveal that, globally, there are no significant differences between those who have and those who do not have a pet in terms of health-related variables, even though men who have a pet show greater mental, social and psychological well-being, and greater satisfaction with life. A greater Emotional Proximity is associated with fewer symptoms of psychopathology, whereas a higher Perceived Costs of having a pet is associated with poor health and quality of life perception, as well as lower mental well-being. It is concluded that the quality of the relationship that it is established with the pet is more important than having the pet in itself. In view of the complexity of the factors involved, it will be important to develop longitudinal studies, with control of sociodemographic, clinical and pet-related variables.

Keywords : pets; health; pet-owner relationship; Portuguese adults.

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