More than half of U.S. pet owners believe their pet has literally saved their life, according to a new survey that underscores the emotional bond between people and their companion animals.
Talker Research, on behalf of pet food company Nulo, surveyed 2,000 cat and dog owners and found that 56% said their pet had rescued them in some way — emotionally, mentally or physically. Respondents cited everything from emotional support to alerting loved ones in a medical emergency.
“I’m not sure I would be the person I am today (or even be here today) if it wasn’t for him,” one respondent shared. Another said, “Knowing I had to get home to my babies saved me,” after a hospital stay.
In return, 56% of respondents said they would trade years off their own life so their pet could live longer.
Strong connection between pet ownership, mental health
The survey also highlighted the strong connection between pet ownership and mental health. More than a third (34%) got their pet specifically to improve their mental well-being. Before owning a pet, only 32% rated their mental health as an A- or better. That figure rose to 71% after bringing a pet into their lives.
Almost all respondents (95%) said having a pet improves their mental health on a daily basis. “I just have to look at him to have a better outlook on life and the day. I’m so grateful to have him in my life,” one person wrote.
Olympic gymnast and Nulo spokesperson Simone Biles said, “My dogs Lilo and Rambo are my biggest cheerleaders — they’re always there for me, no matter what kind of day I’m having. The love and support we get from our pets is so special, and it’s incredible to see just how much they impact our mental health.”
Each day, pets make their owners smile an average of 11 times and laugh nine times, according to the survey. Respondents shared daily habits that bring joy, such as sleeping curled up with their pet or watching them dance or play.
Being separated from their pet also takes a toll. On average, respondents said their mental health starts to decline within five hours of being apart from their animals, with 41% feeling the effects in just two hours.
The survey found that 53% of respondents trust their pet more than their partner, and 38% trust their pet’s instincts more than their own. “I would have died if I didn’t go to the ER back in June; my dog alerted my husband something wasn’t right,” one respondent shared.
In some cases, pets have become the most trusted presence in their owners' lives — more than friends, partners, or even themselves.
“Whether it’s early morning training or long travel days, my dog Jane is always my constant,” said Caeleb Dressel, nine-time Olympic gold medalist and Nulo ambassador. “She lifts my spirits, keeps me grounded, and makes every day better just by being there.”
