When life feels overwhelming, it’s often the smallest things that bring us back to balance – a warm nudge from a wet nose, a gentle purr on a quiet night, or even just the sound of paws padding across the floor. For many, pets aren’t just companions, they’re emotional lifelines.
At Woodgreen Pets Charity, where hundreds of pets are matched with loving homes each year, the link between animals and emotional wellbeing is clear. Sue Ketland, behaviour and training specialist and much-loved star of Channel 4’s The Dog House, has seen this connection firsthand.
“Sharing your life with a pet gives your life a purpose,” Sue says. “They rely on you for their survival, and in turn, they give your life structure and meaning.”
Pets & Mental Health: A Two-Way Bond
Owning a pet isn’t just about cuddles and companionship (though those certainly help). For people struggling with anxiety, depression, or loneliness, a pet can create a routine, offer a reason to leave the house, and be a calming, non-judgmental presence.
Sue explains how dogs, in particular, encourage daily walks – time to breathe fresh air, connect with nature, and meet others in the community. But it’s not just dogs:
“Cats can be wonderfully comforting. They love to sit on your lap and can be playful and affectionate in their own way,” Sue adds. “It’s not always about constant interaction – sometimes just having something to care for can lift your spirits.”
In fact, Woodgreen’s recent survey of nearly 8,000 pet lovers revealed that:
- 50% said their pet is their best friend and primary source of companionship.
- An incredible 90% said a pet has helped them through poor mental health or tough times.
Real Stories, Real Healing
Sue recalls one family’s journey in particular – a poignant example of pets helping people heal.
“They had recently lost a husband and father. The house was filled with grief. When I placed two rescue dogs with them, everything changed. The dogs gave them a new focus, a reason to smile, something to care for. They began going out, talking to others, and slowly reconnecting with life – through the dogs.”
This isn’t an isolated case. Time and again, Sue and the Woodgreen team witness how pets offer confidence, routine, and a sense of self-worth to people navigating difficult emotional landscapes.
The Power of Therapy Pets
Matthew Robinson from Pets As Therapy (PAT) shares how therapy animals are changing lives in schools, hospitals, and care homes across the UK.
“Our therapy dogs are simply well-behaved pets who love human interaction,” he explains. “Thanks to their dedicated owners – our PAT volunteers – these animals visit care homes, hospitals, hospices and schools, spreading happiness wherever they go.”
PAT Dogs help ease loneliness and lift spirits. In care homes, residents are often eager to share memories of their own pets, and just stroking a calm dog can bring immense comfort. One woman was so touched by a PAT Dog that she keeps a framed photo of it by her bedside.
Hospital patients, too, find relief in a dog’s company – easing anxiety before treatment and offering a welcome distraction. Even busy healthcare staff find joy in a brief visit.
In schools, PAT Dogs help young people struggling with anxiety or confidence. Children who feel nervous reading aloud often flourish when they can share a story with a patient, four-legged friend. It’s a calming, confidence-building experience with real impact.
Thinking of Getting a Pet for Emotional Support?
Sue’s advice is clear:
“Only take on a pet if you’re sure you can meet their needs. Pets are sentient beings – they feel joy, sadness, fear. If they’re happy and cared for, they can absolutely enhance your life. But if they’re stressed or neglected, it can add to your burden.
If you’re ready for the commitment, the rewards can be life-changing – for both of you.
At Woodgreen, we’re here every step of the way to help you find the right pet, understand their needs, and build a bond that supports both your wellbeing and theirs. With over 100 years of experience, we’re proud to champion the healing power of pet companionship.”
Watch the video below and see the pet effect in action:
Ready to see how a pet could change your life?
Visit woodgreen.org.uk to learn more about pet adoption and support services.
Visit petsastherapy.org to learn more about pets as therapy.
