Could a pet be all you need in life?

In a world where loneliness is increasingly recognized as a public health crisis, a surprising ally has emerged: our furry companions.

Of course, I’ve long been a proponent of the therapeutic power of animals. From reducing stress to increasing physical activity, the health benefits of pet ownership are wide-ranging.

That’s why I’m excited to share some new findings.

This new research confirms just how powerful this bond is—especially for those who live alone, have lost a spouse, or never found a life partner.

It turns out, owning a pet may bring as much life satisfaction as marriage… or even a six-figure salary!

A surprising source of satisfaction

Researchers analyzed over 2,600 responses from 769 participants in the U.K. Household Longitudinal Study.

And what they found was remarkable…

Pet owners—especially cats and dogs—reported a significant boost in life satisfaction. The benefit was comparable to being married or earning $100,000 more per year. ​(Wow!)

Let that sink in: Simply having a pet can deliver the same life satisfaction as a loving partner or financial windfall.

This held true across the board—regardless of age, gender, or income level.

In other words, it’s not your circumstances that matter most when it comes to happiness… it’s your connection. And pets provide it in spades.

The therapeutic role of pets

The mental health benefits of pets go far beyond companionship. They offer purpose, routine, a sense of responsibility, and a comforting presence—especially after the loss of a spouse or loved one.

Dr. Ashwini Nadkarni, MD, of Harvard Medical School, has even suggested integrating pets into public health strategies to combat loneliness and mental health challenges.

After all, the presence of a pet can encourage social interaction, physical activity, and a structured daily routine.​

Bottom line? Whether you’re coping with loss, living alone, or simply looking to enrich your life, pets offer an unmatched source of comfort and connection. Their impact on emotional health is real—and backed by research.

And if owning a pet feels like too much responsibility? That’s okay too.

Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter or rescue. You might also find a pet therapy service that makes house calls—many of which will bring a trained dog to visit you for up to one hour.

Source:

“A New Study Says Pets Can Be Just as Good for Your Mental Health as a Spouse—Seriously.” Health, 04/23/2025. (health.com/pets-boost-life-satisfaction-study-11716049)