If you’ve ever felt instantly calmer after petting your dog or cat, there’s real science behind it. Positive interactions with pets can spark the release of oxytocin, often called the “bonding hormone.” This feel-good chemical reduces stress, promotes connection, and even supports cardiovascular health. In fact, just a few minutes of friendly contact with a dog has been shown to raise oxytocin levels while lowering cortisol, the stress hormone (Odendaal & Meintjes, 2003).

How Pets Support Mental Health

• Oxytocin loop. Studies show that eye contact and affectionate touch between dogs and humans create a shared oxytocin response—strengthening the sense of connection on both sides (Nagasawa et al., 2015).

• Stress reduction. Oxytocin helps calm the body’s stress system. Human–animal interaction studies link this with reduced cortisol levels and improved mood (Beetz et al., 2012).

• Daily structure and support. Caring for pets provides routine and purpose. A systematic review found that pets can offer comfort, companionship, and a sense of stability for people living with mental health challenges (Brooks et al., 2018).

A mindful way to benefit

Pet ownership is rewarding, but it’s also a commitment. If you’re not ready for the responsibility of a pet, consider volunteering at a local shelter or spending time with a friend’s animal. These interactions can still bring many of the same benefits.

Of course, with the joy of pet companionship comes the reality of grief when a pet passes. We’ll explore how to navigate that loss in our next post.

At Living Mindfully, LLC, our licensed therapists—Staci Vanzant, LCSW, NBC-HWC, Gabrielle Foley, LCSW, RYT-200, and MacKenzie Sering, LCSW—are here to help you strengthen your mental health through mindfulness, connection, and compassionate support. We provide virtual sessions in Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, and New Jersey, as well as in-person counseling in Indiana. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey.