Animals on my Mind

WHY DO FURRY FRIENDS HELP US FEEL GOOD?

- Susan Wroble

When you pet your dog or snuggle with a purring cat, your body and brain calm down. Why? Scientists are studying the effects of human-animal interactions to try to find out.

The Cuddle Chemical

In the United States, more than two-thirds of families have pets. Researchers asked children about their most important relationships. Kids listed pets right along with their immediate family and best friends. And you may not be surprised at this finding: Many kids rely more on their dogs for comfort than on their siblings.

A hormone called oxytocin helps explain why. Hormones are substances our bodies create. That warm, fuzzy feeling that comes when you are safe and secure is from oxytocin. Imagine cuddling with your dog and staring into his soft brown eyes. You get a feeling of happiness from the release of oxytocin-and so does your dog. This helps create a strong attachment called a human-animal bond.

The Waffle Study

A team of researchers in Denver conducted a study on the human-animal bond. Officially, it was known as "Effects of a VA Facility Dog on Hospitalized Veterans." But around the hospital, people called it "the Waffle study." The study had nothing to do with breakfast foods. Instead, Waffle is a highly trained dog. She works with human partner Elizabeth Holman. Holman is a psychologist helping people process their emotions and deal with their problems.