The effect of human-animal bonding on quality of life

The purpose of this study was to determine whether pets have a positive impact on the lives of their owners by improving their quality of life (QoL). In addition, the study examined the relationship between pet bonding, selected demographic variables and QoL among pet owners and non-pet owners; The subjects consisted of 136 pet owners and 101 non-pet owners from selected church congregations in a Southwestern state. Results of the t-test indicated no significant difference in the QoL scores between pet owners and non-pet owners (p =.232). Yet on a qualitative level, pet owners (90.3%), felt that their pet did affect their QoL; Qualitatively, five major themes were represented. The largest supported theme was that pets provide unconditional love and companionship, followed by emotional and social support, increased laughter and entertainment, increased physical activity and lastly, a feeling of security and protection