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Watson KM, Kahe K, Shier TA, Li M. Age modifies the association between pet ownership and cardiovascular disease. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1168629. [PMID: 37252388 PMCID: PMC10213240 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1168629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Studies examining associations between pet ownership and cardiovascular disease have yielded inconsistent results. These discrepancies may be partially explained by variations in age and sex across study populations. Our study included 6,632 American Gut Project participants who are US residents ≥40 years. Methods We first estimated the association of pet ownership with cardiovascular disease risk using multivariable-adjusted logistic regression, and further investigated effect modifications of age and sex. Results Cat but not dog ownership was significantly associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk (OR: 0.56 [0.42, 0.73] and OR: 1.17 [0.88, 1.39], respectively). Cat and dog ownership significantly interacted with age but not sex, indicating that cardiovascular risk varies by the age-by-pet ownership combination. Compared to the reference group (40-64 years, no cat or dog), participants 40-64 years with only a cat had the lowest cardiovascular disease risk (OR: 0.40 [0.26, 0.61]). Those ≥65 years with no pets had the highest risk (OR: 3.85 [2.85, 5.24]). Discussion This study supports the importance of pets in human cardiovascular health, suggesting optimal pet choice is age-dependent. Having both a cat and dog can be advantageous to people ≥65 years, while having only a cat may benefit those 40-64 years. Further studies are needed to assess causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine M. Watson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Ka Kahe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Timothy A. Shier
- Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
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Rathish D, Rajapakse J, Weerakoon K. Household preferences for pet keeping: Findings from a rural district of Sri Lanka. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277108. [PMID: 36413533 PMCID: PMC9681089 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pet ownership is an integral part of a modern-day family. It provides a wide range of benefits to humans. However, data on pet ownership are relatively limited from rural regions, Southern Asia and low-middle-income countries. We aim to report the prevalence and associated factors for pet ownership and veterinary visits in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine significant associations between variables of interest and pet ownership (p < 0.05). Out of the 532 households, 57% currently owned a pet. The most common pet was the dog owned by 41% of the households and the cat was the second most owned by 17%. Security (69% - 152/220) was the most common role for dogs at home while it was companionship for cats (31% - 27/88) and hobby for both birds (64% - 18/28) and fish (54% - 14/26). Most dogs (54% - 118/220) had one veterinary visit within the last year. Households with >1 adult female [p = 0.02; OR = 1.61 (95% CI 1.09 to 2.36)], participants living alone [p = 0.03; OR = 0.24 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.86)] and Buddhists [p = 0.02; OR = 2.56 (95% CI 1.16 to 5.63)] were significantly associated with pet ownership. Pet ownership is common among people in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, with a few demographic factors having a significant association with pet ownership. Dogs are the most common type of pet and highlight the opportunity for research related to canine companionship and human health. Future research on such topics should consider the above-mentioned socio-demographic predictors as potential confounders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devarajan Rathish
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- * E-mail:
| | - Jayanthe Rajapakse
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Kosala Weerakoon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
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Teo JT, Johnstone SJ, Römer SS, Thomas SJ. Psychophysiological mechanisms underlying the potential health benefits of human-dog interactions: A systematic literature review. Int J Psychophysiol 2022; 180:27-48. [PMID: 35901904 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
While the symbiotic nature of human-dog relationships and perceived benefits to human health have attracted much scientific interest, the mechanisms through which human-dog interactions may confer health benefits to humans are still poorly understood. The aim of this systematic literature review was to synthesize evidence of physiological changes associated with human-dog interactions with relevance to human health. Electronic databases were systematically searched (PubMed, MEDLINE with full text, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, and Web of Science Core Collection) for relevant studies. Of the 13,072 studies identified, 129 met the inclusion criteria, with approximately half being randomized trials (Level 2) based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine level system. Measures employed to study human physiological changes associated with human-dog interactions most commonly involved cardiac parameters and hormones, with negligible research of brain activity. The main positive findings were increases in heart rate variability and oxytocin, and decreases in cortisol with human-dog interactions. These physiological indicators are consistent with activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and oxytocinergic system (OTS), and down-regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity. These results provide evidence of specific pathways through which human-dog contact may confer health benefits, likely through relaxation, bonding, and stress reduction. However, these findings should be interpreted contextually due to limitations and methodological differences. Previous research using other biological variables was limited in quantity and quality, thus impeding firm conclusions on other possible mechanisms. Further research is needed in some psychophysiological domains, particularly electroencephalography, to better understand central nervous system (CNS) effects. The findings of this review have implications for human-dog interactions to positively affect several stress-sensitive physiological pathways and thus confer health benefits. This supports their incorporation in various clinical, non-clinical, and research settings to develop evidence-based interventions and practices for cost-effective and efficacious ways to improve human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian T Teo
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Stuart J Johnstone
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Stephanie S Römer
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Susan J Thomas
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, 2522, Australia.
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Abstract
The study compares personality factors, symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress between owners and non-pet owners. A total of 145 adults participated, between 18 and 78 years (M = 30.96, SD = 12.10). Participants were divided according to the type of pet they had: 1) dogs, 2) cats, 3) dogs and cats. The results suggest that people who do not have pets showed more anxiety symptoms than those who have pets. Dogs and cats owners showed higher scores of conscientiousness personality factor than participants who did not have any pets. The results reveal differences between animals owners and non-owners. There is a need for studies using mediating variables analyzes, as well as longitudinal research that can explore the feasible causal relationship between different characteristics of people who own pets and well-being.
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Association between pet ownership and the risk of dying from colorectal cancer: an 18-year follow-up of a national cohort. J Public Health (Oxf) 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-019-01069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
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Hughes MJ, Verreynne ML, Harpur P, Pachana NA. Companion Animals and Health in Older Populations: A Systematic Review. Clin Gerontol 2020; 43:365-377. [PMID: 31423915 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2019.1650863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES . The aim of this systematic literature review (SLR) was to investigate the effect of companion animals (whether simply as pets or used in more formal intervention approaches) on the physical and mental health of older adults (aged 60+). METHODS . The reviewers identified key search terms and conducted a systematic search of the PsycINFO and PubMed databases. The 70 articles reviewed were evaluated through tabular and thematic analysis. RESULTS . In 52 of the studies examined, companion animals positively contributed to the mental and/or physical health of older adults. With respect to mental health, involvement with a companion animal improved participant quality of life and effectively attenuated symptoms of depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and the behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of dementia (BPSD). In relation to physical health, marked increases in physical activity and improvements in blood pressure and heart rate variability were the only consistent physical health improvements observed from companion animal interactions. CONCLUSIONS . Animal companionship can benefit the mental and physical health of older adults, although more and better controlled research on this topic is required. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS . Use of companion animals has the potential to be an effective treatment or adjunct therapy to improve the health status and quality of life of older individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Hughes
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Paul Harpur
- TC Beirne School of Law, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Nancy A Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
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Effects of Proximity between Companion Dogs and Their Caregivers on Heart Rate Variability Measures in Older Adults: A Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082674. [PMID: 32295094 PMCID: PMC7215279 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Heart rate variability (HRV) is a noninvasive tool used to evaluate autonomic nervous system function and is affected by age, stress, postural changes, and physical activity. Dog ownership has been associated with higher 24-hr HRV and increased physical activity compared to nonowners. The current pilot study was designed to evaluate the effects of proximity to a dog in real time (minute-by-minute) on older dog caregivers’ HRV measures and stress index during normal daily life over a 24-hr period. Eleven caregivers (56–83 years of age) wore ActiGraph GT9X Link accelerometers and camntech electrocardiogram monitors, and 11 dogs wore PetPace Collars and ActiGraph monitors to determine (a) proximity (absence or presence of Received Signal Strength Indicator, RSSI), (b) heart rate and HRV measures, (c) position (lying vs. sitting vs. standing), and (d) physical activity in the 11 dyads. Twenty-four hour HRV (SDNN index) and physical activity in the caregivers and dogs were related. Stress index was lower, and HRV parameters (SDNN, rMSDD, high frequency power (HF)) were higher when an RSSI signal was detected (presence of dog) compared to no RSSI signal (absence of dog) in the caregivers while inactive (lying + sitting + standing combined). HRV parameters (rMSDD and HF) were lower in the caregivers while standing and sitting compared to lying. The results from this pilot study support the hypothesis that spending time in the presence of a companion dog increases caregivers’ HRV throughout the day and suggest that proximity to a dog may contribute to overall improvements in 24-hr HRV and cardiac health in dog caregivers.
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Buck B, Muniz-Rodriguez K, Jillson S, Huang LT, Adhikari A, Jacob N, Wei Y, Zhang J. Pet ownership and risk of dying from cancer: observation from a nationally representative cohort. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2020; 30:105-116. [PMID: 30758233 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1577366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We longitudinally examined the relationship between pet ownership and risk of dying from cancer in a nationally representative cohort of 13,725 adults in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-1994. The vital status was followed through 31 December 2010. Women who owned pets (any type) presented one-year shorter survival time (15.88 years) than non-pet owner (16.83 years). A larger difference of survival time was particularly seen in bird owners (13.01 years) compared to non-bird owners (16.82 years). After adjusting for potential confounders, hazard ratio (HR) of dying from cancer associated with any type of pets was 1.08 (95% CI = 0.77-1.50) for men and 1.40 (1.01-1.93) for women. The association in women was presumably driven by owning birds [HR 2.41 (1.34-4.31)] or cats [HR 1.48 (0.97-2.24)]. Keeping birds and cats in the household was associated with an increased risk of dying from cancer, especially in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Buck
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Kamalich Muniz-Rodriguez
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Sarah Jillson
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Li-Ting Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Atin Adhikari
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Naduparambil Jacob
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yudan Wei
- Department of Community Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA, USA
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
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Companion Dog Foster Caregiver Program for Older Veterans at the VA Maryland Health Care System: A Feasibility Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16214285. [PMID: 31690056 PMCID: PMC6861960 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16214285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Veterans experience mental health conditions at a disproportionate rate compared to their civilian counterparts, and approximately 60% of older veterans who receive their care through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) do not meet physical activity (PA) recommendations. We tested the Veterans as Foster Ambassadors program at the VA Maryland Health Care System to examine whether fostering a companion dog would improve PA and function, heart rate variability (HRV), balance, and quality of life (QOL) in older veterans. Participants wore an accelerometer for ≥10 days during each phase (30 day baseline vs. 60 day foster period) to measure daily PA (n = 4). Six-minute walk (6MW) and balance testing (n = 4) and 24 h heart rate (HR) and HRV (n = 2) were determined at baseline and during the foster period. Compared to baseline, there were significant increases in (a) distance during the 6MW, (b) daily steps, and (c) time spent in moderate activity during the foster period. 24 h HR decreased and time- and frequency-domain measures of HRV significantly increased in a veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder during the foster period compared to baseline. All veterans offered positive feedback about the program and indicated that it was beneficial to them. The results from this pilot study provide evidence that fostering a companion dog can improve PA, health, and QOL in older veterans. Future research conducted with a larger sample size to validate the results is warranted.
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Adhikari A, Jacob NK, Hansen AR, Wei Y, Snook K, Liu F, Zhang J. Pet ownership and the risk of dying from lung cancer, findings from an 18 year follow-up of a US national cohort. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 173:379-386. [PMID: 30954911 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In contrast to the popularity of pets, research on the health effects of living with pets, particularly, on the risk of cancer, is minimal and inconclusive. We longitudinally examined relationships between pet ownership and the risk of dying from lung cancer. METHODS We analyzed nationally representative data of 13,725 adults aged ≥ 19 who answered the question about pet ownership in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-1994, as the baseline survey. Vital status was followed through December 31st, 2010. RESULTS About 43% of the study population owned pets, with 20.4% having cats and 4.6% having birds. A total of 213 lung cancer deaths were recorded by the end of 183,094 unweighted person-years of follow-up with a lung-cancer specific death rate of 1.00 per 1000 person-years. After adjustment for cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, physical activity, body mass index, history of atopic conditions, and serum cotinine, owning a pet (any) was associated with a doubled mortality rate among women for lung cancer [hazard ratio (HR)= 2.31 (1.41-3.79)] over non-owners. This association was largely attributed to having a cat or a bird. The HR was 2.85 (1.62-5.01) for cats, and 2.67 (0.68-10.5) for birds. The HR for dogs was 1.01 (0.57-1.77). No significant patterns of association were observed among men either for any pets or for a subtype of pet. CONCLUSIONS Living with a pet, especially, a cat or a bird, was significantly associated with elevated hazard of dying from lung cancer among women. The detrimental effect that pets conferred was not explained by confounding from cigarette smoking or atopic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atin Adhikari
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Naduparambil K Jacob
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrew R Hansen
- Department of Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Yudan Wei
- Department of Community Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA 31027, USA
| | - Kassandra Snook
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA
| | - Fengqi Liu
- Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA, USA.
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Saunders J, Parast L, Babey SH, Miles JV. Exploring the differences between pet and non-pet owners: Implications for human-animal interaction research and policy. PLoS One 2017. [PMID: 28644848 PMCID: PMC5482437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There is conflicting evidence about whether living with pets results in better mental and physical health outcomes, with the majority of the empirical research evidence being inconclusive due to methodological limitations. We briefly review the research evidence, including the hypothesized mechanisms through which pet ownership may influence health outcomes. This study examines how pet and non-pet owners differ across a variety of socio-demographic and health measures, which has implications for the proper interpretation of a large number of correlational studies that attempt to draw causal attributions. We use a large, population-based survey from California administered in 2003 (n = 42,044) and find that pet owners and non-pet owners differ across many traits, including gender, age, race/ethnicity, living arrangements, and income. We include a discussion about how the factors associated with the selection into the pet ownership group are related to a range of mental and physical health outcomes. Finally, we provide guidance on how to properly model the effects of pet ownership on health to accurately estimate this relationship in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Saunders
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, United States of America
| | - Layla Parast
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Susan H. Babey
- UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jeremy V. Miles
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, United States of America
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Harris KI, Sholtis SD. Companion Angels on a Leash: Welcoming Service Dogs Into Classroom Communities for Children With Autism. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/00094056.2016.1208003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Pet Ownership and the Risk of Dying from Cardiovascular Disease Among Adults Without Major Chronic Medical Conditions. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2016; 23:245-53. [PMID: 27174431 DOI: 10.1007/s40292-016-0156-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In a recent statement, the American Heart Association stated "There are scant data on pet ownership and survival in people without established cardiovascular disease (CVD)". This study sought to fill this gap. METHODS We analyzed nationally representative data of 3964 adults aged ≥50 who were free from major physical illnesses. Pet ownership was assessed at baseline between 1988 and 1994. Vital status was followed through December 31st 2006. RESULTS With dogs being most popular pets owned by 22.0 (standard error 0.34) % of the participants, 34.6 % of the study population owned a pet. Pet ownership was associated with low rates of CVD deaths [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.69 (95 % CI 0.45-1.07)] and stroke [0.54 (0.28-1.01)] at borderline significant levels among women. These associations were adjusted for physical activity and largely attributed to having a cat rather than a dog. Among cat owners, the HR of all CVD deaths was 0.62 (0.36-1.05) and the HR of dying from stroke was 0.22 (0.07-0.68) compared with non-cat owners. The corresponding HRs among dog owners were 0.82 (0.51-1.34) and 0.76 (0.34-1.71) respectively. No similar associations were observed among men. The hazard of dying from hypertension was not associated with pet ownership for both men and women. CONCLUSIONS Owning a cat rather than a dog was significantly associated with a reduced hazard of dying from CVD events, in particular, stroke. The protection pets confer may not be from physical activities, but possibly due to personality of the pet owners or stress-relieving effects of animal companionship.
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Schreiner PJ. Emerging Cardiovascular Risk Research: Impact of Pets on Cardiovascular Risk Prevention. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2016; 10:8. [PMID: 27547289 PMCID: PMC4991891 DOI: 10.1007/s12170-016-0489-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Animals interact with humans in multiple ways, including as therapy and service animals, commercially as livestock, as wildlife, and in zoos. But the most common interaction is as companion animals in our homes, with an estimated 180 million cats and dogs living in US households. While pet ownership has been reported to have many health benefits, the findings are inconsistent. Cardiovascular risk factors such as lipids, glucose, obesity, and heart rate variability have improved, worsened, or remained the same in the limited number of studies considering companion animals. Physical activity increases have more consistently been linked with dog ownership, although whether this reflects antecedent motivation or direct benefit from the dog is unclear. Allergies and asthma also are variably linked to pet ownership and are confounded by family history of atopy and timing of exposure to pet dander. The benefits of companion animals are most likely to be through reduction in depression, anxiety, and social isolation, but these studies have been largely cross-sectional and may depend on degree of bonding of the owner with the animal. Positive relationships show measurably higher oxytocin with lower cortisol and alpha-amylase levels. Finally, pet ownership is also a marker of better socioeconomic status and family stability, and if companion animals are to provide cardiovascular risk benefit, the route should perhaps be through improved education and opportunity for ownership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela J. Schreiner
- Center to Study Human-Animal Relationships and Environments, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S. 2nd Street, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
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Holt S, Johnson RA, Yaglom HD, Brenner C. Animal Assisted Activity with Older Adult Retirement Facility Residents: The PAWSitive Visits Program. ACTIVITIES, ADAPTATION & AGING 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2015.1089696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Chapa DW, Akintade B, Son H, Woltz P, Hunt D, Friedmann E, Hartung MK, Thomas SA. Pathophysiological Relationships Between Heart Failure and Depression and Anxiety. Crit Care Nurse 2014; 34:14-24; quiz 25. [DOI: 10.4037/ccn2014938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are common comorbid conditions in patients with heart failure. Patients with heart failure and depression have increased mortality. The association of anxiety with increased mortality in patients with heart failure is not established. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the similarities of the underlying pathophysiology of heart failure, depression, and anxiety by using the Biopsychosocial Holistic Model of Cardiovascular Health. Depression and anxiety affect biological processes of cardiovascular function in patients with heart failure by altering neurohormonal function via activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, autonomic dysregulation, and activation of cytokine cascades and platelets. Patients with heart failure and depression or anxiety may exhibit a continued cycle of heart failure progression, increased depression, and increased anxiety. Understanding the underlying pathophysiological relationships in patients with heart failure who experience comorbid depression and/or anxiety is critical in order to implement appropriate treatments, educate patients and caregivers, and educate other health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah W. Chapa
- Deborah Chapa is an assistant professor and coordinator of bachelor of nursing science to doctor of nursing practice at George Washington University, School of Nursing, Washington, DC. She is also an acute care nurse practitioner
| | - Bimbola Akintade
- Bimbola Akintade is an assistant professor in the trauma, critical care, emergency department and clinical nurse specialist nurse practitioner program at the University of Maryland, School of Nursing, and an acute care nurse practitioner at Washington Hospital Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Heesook Son
- Heesook Son is an assistant professor at Chung-Ang University School of Nursing, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Patricia Woltz
- Patricia Woltz is director of nursing research at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore
| | - Dennis Hunt
- Dennis Hunt is an assistant professor, physical therapy and human performance, and director of the exercise science program at Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Meyers, Florida
| | - Erika Friedmann
- Erika Friedmann is a professor at the University of Maryland, School of Nursing
| | - Mary Kay Hartung
- Mary Kay Hartung was a health sciences librarian at Florida Gulf Coast University. She is now retired
| | - Sue Ann Thomas
- Sue Ann Thomas is a professor emeritus of nursing at the University of Maryland School of Nursing
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Polheber JP, Matchock RL. The presence of a dog attenuates cortisol and heart rate in the Trier Social Stress Test compared to human friends. J Behav Med 2013; 37:860-7. [PMID: 24170391 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-013-9546-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Limited research has addressed how social support in the form of a pet can affect both sympathetic and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal reactivity in response to a psychological challenge. The present study examined the effects of social support on salivary cortisol and heart rate (HR). Forty-eight participants were randomly assigned to three different conditions (human friend, novel dog, or control). All participants completed the Trier Social Stress Test and provided cortisol, HR, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory measures. For participants paired with a dog, overall cortisol levels were attenuated throughout the experimental procedure, and HR was attenuated during the Trier Social Stress Test. For all groups, state anxiety increased after the Trier Social Stress Test, and HR during the Trier Social Stress Test was a predictor of cortisol. These results suggest that short-term exposure to a novel dog in an unfamiliar setting can be beneficial. They also suggest a possible mechanism for the beneficial effect associated with affiliation with pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Polheber
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, Altoona, 3000 Ivyside Park, Altoona, PA, 16601, USA,
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Wohlfarth R, Mutschler B, Beetz A, Kreuser F, Korsten-Reck U. Dogs motivate obese children for physical activity: key elements of a motivational theory of animal-assisted interventions. Front Psychol 2013; 4:796. [PMID: 24194726 PMCID: PMC3810595 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is empirical evidence that the presence of a companion animal can have a positive impact on performance. The available evidence can be viewed in terms of differing hypotheses that attempt to explain the mechanisms behind the positive effects. Little attention has been given to motivation as a potential mode of action with regards to human-animal interactions. First we give an overview of evidence that animals might promote motivation. Second we present a study to examine the effect of a therapy dog on exercise performance in children with obesity. Methods: Twelve children, aged 8–12 years old, were randomly assigned to two groups in a crossover design: dog-group and human confederate group. Several types of physical activities via accelerometer and subjective ratings of wellbeing, satisfaction, and motivation were assessed. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance for repeated measures on one factor. Results: The main effect of condition was significant for all performance variables. There was less passive behavior and more physical activity for all performance variables in the presence of the dog than in that of the human confederate. Between dog- and human- condition there was no difference in the subjective rating of motivation, wellbeing, or satisfaction. Discussion: The results demonstrate that the presence of a therapy dog has the potential to increase physical activity in obese children. Task performance as a declarative measure was increased by the presence of the dog in comparison to a human confederate, but self-report measures of motivation, satisfaction or wellbeing did not differ between the two conditions. Therefore, it stands to reason that a dog could trigger implicit motives which enhance motivation for activity. The results of our study indicate the potentially beneficial effect of incorporating dogs into outpatient training for obese children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Wohlfarth
- Department of Public Health & Health Education, University of Education Freiburg, Germany ; Freiburg Institute of Animal-Assisted Therapy Freiburg, Germany
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Périco BC, Mauerberg-deCastro E, Pestana MB, Porto LA, Magre FL, Pacheco SCM. Estabilidade locomotora durante a condução de um cão. MOTRIZ: REVISTA DE EDUCACAO FISICA 2013. [DOI: 10.1590/s1980-65742013000700009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da percepção háptica na estabilidade locomotora do ser humano durante a condução de um cão com uma guia. Adultos (n=14), com e sem restrição da visão, andaram sobre uma trave de equilíbrio sozinhos, ou, com uma guia, andaram conduzindo um cão sobre um banco estreito ao lado. Quando os participantes caminharam conduzindo o cão, privados da visão, o desempenho locomotor-avaliado através da duração do deslocamento total, da duração das passadas, das fases de duplo suporte e balanço, do comprimento e velocidade das passadas, assim como da variabilidade da fase relativa-melhorou significativamente (p < 0,05) em relação ao desempenho locomotor na condição sem o cão. Nas condições com visão, conduzir o cão não resultou em mudanças nestas variáveis. Concluímos que estes indivíduos foram capazes de utilizar a guia do cão para detectar propriedades hápticas com propósito de melhorar a estabilidade na locomoção.
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Levine GN, Allen K, Braun LT, Christian HE, Friedmann E, Taubert KA, Thomas SA, Wells DL, Lange RA. Pet ownership and cardiovascular risk: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation 2013; 127:2353-63. [PMID: 23661721 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0b013e31829201e1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Jacobson KC, Hoffman CL, Vasilopoulos T, Kremen WS, Panizzon MS, Grant MD, Lyons MJ, Xian H, Franz CE. Genetic and Environmental Influences on Individual Differences in Frequency of Play with Pets among Middle-Aged Men: A Behavioral Genetic Analysis. ANTHROZOOS 2012; 25:441-456. [PMID: 25580056 PMCID: PMC4286882 DOI: 10.2752/175303712x13479798785814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that pet ownership and human-animal interaction (HAI) have benefits for human physical and psychological well-being. However, there may be pre-existing characteristics related to patterns of pet ownership and interactions with pets that could potentially bias results of research on HAI. The present study uses a behavioral genetic design to estimate the degree to which genetic and environmental factors contribute to individual differences in frequency of play with pets among adult men. Participants were from the ongoing longitudinal Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA), a population-based sample of 1,237 monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins aged 51-60 years. Results demonstrate that MZ twins have higher correlations than DZ twins on frequency of pet play, suggesting that genetic factors play a role in individual differences in interactions with pets. Structural equation modeling revealed that, according to the best model, genetic factors accounted for as much as 37% of the variance in pet play, although the majority of variance (63-71%) was due to environmental factors that are unique to each twin. Shared environmental factors, which would include childhood exposure to pets, overall accounted for <10% of the variance in adult frequency of pet play, and were not statistically significant. These results suggest that the effects of childhood exposure to pets on pet ownership and interaction patterns in adulthood may be mediated primarily by genetically-influenced characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen C Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, USA
| | - Christy L Hoffman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, USA
| | - Terrie Vasilopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, USA
| | - William S Kremen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, USA ; VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | | | | | - Hong Xian
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Carol E Franz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, USA
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Aiba N, Hotta K, Yokoyama M, Wang G, Tabata M, Kamiya K, Shimizu R, Kamekawa D, Hoshi K, Yamaoka-Tojo M, Masuda T. Usefulness of pet ownership as a modulator of cardiac autonomic imbalance in patients with diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and/or hyperlipidemia. Am J Cardiol 2012; 109:1164-70. [PMID: 22277896 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2011.11.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2011] [Revised: 11/07/2011] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Among patients with coronary artery disease, pet owners exhibit a greater 1-year survival rate than nonowners. Lifestyle-related diseases are well-known risk factors for coronary artery disease and induce imbalances in autonomic nervous activity. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether pet ownership modulates cardiac autonomic nervous activity imbalance in patients with lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. A total of 191 patients (mean age 69 ± 8 years) were interviewed about their pet ownership status and were classified into pet owner and nonowner groups. After recording a 24-hour Holter electrocardiogram for heart rate variability analysis, frequency-domain and nonlinear-domain analyses were performed to determine the high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency (LF) components, LF/HF ratio, and entropy. The heart rate variability parameters were assessed for 24 hours, during the day (8.00 A.M. to 5.00 P.M.), and during the night (0:00 A.M. to 6.00 A.M.), and compared between the 2 groups. To evaluate the potential predictive factors for cardiac autonomic imbalance, univariate and multivariate analyses of HF and LF/HF were conducted for potential confounding variables. The pet owner group exhibited significantly greater HF(24h), HF(day), HF(night), entropy(24h), entropy(day), and entropy(night) and significantly lower LF/HF(24h) and LF/HF(night) compared to the nonowner group. On multivariate analysis, pet ownership was independently and positively associated with HF(24h,) HF(day), and HF(night) and inversely associated with LF/HF(24h) and LF/HF(night). In conclusion, these results suggest that pet ownership is an independent modulator of cardiac autonomic imbalance in patients with lifestyle-related diseases.
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Batt-Rawden KB, Tellnes G. Social factors of sickness absences and ways of coping: a qualitative study of men and women with mental and musculoskeletal diagnoses, Norway. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH PROMOTION 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/14623730.2012.696350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Krause-Parello CA, Tychowski J, Gonzalez A, Boyd Z. Human–Canine Interaction: Exploring Stress Indicator Response Patterns of Salivary Cortisol and Immunoglobulin A. Res Theory Nurs Pract 2012; 26:25-40. [DOI: 10.1891/1541-6577.26.1.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A repeated measures design was used to analyze the effect of a canine interaction on salivary cortisol and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in 33 adults; 16 were pet owners and 17 were non-pet owners. Cortisol and IgA levels before and after a canine interaction (experimental) or viewing a canine movie (control) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and spectrophotometer. Data show a significant interaction effect for salivary cortisol in non-pet owners (p = 0.003). Changes in IgA levels were not significant. The findings suggested that interaction with canines may help reduce the biological effects of stress that influences human health. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to support these results.
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Virués-Ortega J, Pastor-Barriuso R, Castellote JM, Población A, de Pedro-Cuesta J. Effect of animal-assisted therapy on the psychological and functional status of elderly populations and patients with psychiatric disorders: a meta-analysis. Health Psychol Rev 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2010.534965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Virués-Ortega
- a Psychology Department , University of Manitoba & St. Amant Research Centre , 77 Dysart Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba , MB R3T , Canada
| | - Roberto Pastor-Barriuso
- b Research Network in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), National Center for Epidemiology , Carlos III Institute of Health , Madrid , Spain
| | - Juan M. Castellote
- c National School of Occupational Medicine , Carlos III Institute of Health , Madrid , Spain
| | | | - Jesús de Pedro-Cuesta
- e Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Network (CIBERNED), National Center for Epidemiology , Carlos III Institute of Health , Madrid , Spain
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Moretti F, De Ronchi D, Bernabei V, Marchetti L, Ferrari B, Forlani C, Negretti F, Sacchetti C, Atti AR. Pet therapy in elderly patients with mental illness. Psychogeriatrics 2011; 11:125-9. [PMID: 21707862 DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-8301.2010.00329.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the effects of pet therapy on cognitive function, mood and perceived quality of life on elderly inpatients (mean age 84.7 years; 95.2% women) affected by dementia, depression and psychosis. METHODS Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and 15-items Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) were administered to 10 patients (pet group) and 11 controls (control group) together with a self-perceived quality-of-life questionnaire, before and after a pet therapy intervention that lasted 6 weeks. MMSE and GDS mean scores were compared between and within groups by Student's t-test. RESULTS Both the pet group and control group improved on GDS and MMSE. Within the pet group, GDS symptoms decreased by 50% (from 5.9 to 2.7, P= 0.013), whereas mean MMSE score increased by 4.5 (P= 0.060). The between group comparison showed a positive effect of pet therapy intervention on GDS (P= 0.070). Most of the participants reported an improvement of their perceived quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Pet therapy is efficient in improving depressive symptoms and cognitive function in residents of long-term care facilities with mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Moretti
- Institute of Psychiatry, University of Bologna, Local Health Authority of Imola, Bologna, Italy.
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28
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Improvement in children’s humaneness toward nonhuman animals through a project of educational anthrozoology. J Vet Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2010.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Gillum RF, Obisesan TO. Living with companion animals, physical activity and mortality in a U.S. national cohort. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2010; 7:2452-9. [PMID: 20644682 PMCID: PMC2905559 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph7062452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2010] [Revised: 05/20/2010] [Accepted: 05/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Living with a canine companion is postulated to increase physical activity. We test the hypotheses that adults living with a canine companion have a higher level of physical activity and reduced mortality risk compared to those not living with a companion animal. A U.S. national health survey with longitudinal mortality follow-up studied 11,394 American men and women aged 40 years and over examined in 1988–1994 followed an average 8.5 years. Measurements at baseline included self-reported companion animals in the household, socio-demographics, health status, physical and biochemical measurements. Outcome measures were leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), and death from all causes. Death during follow-up occurred in 3,187 persons. In bivariate cross-sectional analyses living with a dog was associated with more frequent LTPA and higher survival. In proportional hazards regression analysis, no significant interaction of age, gender or ethnicity with animals was found. After adjusting for confounding by baseline socio-demographics and health status at ages 40+, the hazards ratio (95% confidence limits) for living with a canine companion compared to no animals was 1.21(1.04–1.41, p < 0.001). After also controlling for health behaviors, blood pressure and body mass, C-reactive protein and HDL-cholesterol, the HR was 1.19 (0.97–1.47, NS). In a nationwide cohort of American adults, analyses demonstrated no lower risk of death independent of confounders among those living with canine or feline companions, despite positive association of canine companions with LTPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Gillum
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Howard University, 2041 Georgia Avenue, Washington, DC 20060, USA.
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Guarneri M, Mercado N, Suhar C. Integrative approaches for cardiovascular disease. Nutr Clin Pract 2010; 24:701-8. [PMID: 19955547 DOI: 10.1177/0884533609343453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the United States, $2.5 trillion is spent on healthcare annually. Seven chronic diseases account for half of all this expense. Of these 7, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes mellitus are largely preventable. Integrative cardiology programs that focus on risk-factor modification through lifestyle change combined with early detection and advanced lipid management offer a new paradigm to the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimi Guarneri
- Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, Scripps Clinic, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Parker GB, Gayed A, Owen CA, Hyett MP, Hilton TM, Heruc GA. Survival following an acute coronary syndrome: a pet theory put to the test. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2010; 121:65-70. [PMID: 19522884 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.2009.01410.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to revisit findings from previous studies reporting that pet ownership improves outcome following an admission for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). METHOD Four hundred and twenty-four patients admitted to a cardiac unit with an ACS completed questions regarding pet ownership in hospital. Rates of cardiac death and readmission were assessed 1 year following hospitalization. RESULTS Pet owners were more likely to experience a death or readmission following their hospitalization, after controlling for key psychosocial and medical covariates. When dog and cat owners were considered separately, cat ownership was significantly associated with increased risk of death or readmission. CONCLUSION In this independent study, pet ownership at baseline, and cat ownership in particular, was associated with increased cardiac morbidity and mortality in the year following an admission for an acute coronary syndrome, a finding contrary to previous reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- G B Parker
- School of Psychiatry, University of NSW; Black Dog Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia.
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Salmoirago-Blotcher E, Ockene IS. Methodological limitations of psychosocial interventions in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) A systematic review. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2009; 9:56. [PMID: 20040100 PMCID: PMC2809039 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2261-9-56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2009] [Accepted: 12/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the potentially life-saving benefits of the implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), a significant group of patients experiences emotional distress after ICD implantation. Different psychosocial interventions have been employed to improve this condition, but previous reviews have suggested that methodological issues may limit the validity of such interventions. AIM To review the methodology of previously published studies of psychosocial interventions in ICD patients, according to CONSORT statement guidelines for non-pharmacological interventions, and provide recommendations for future research. METHODS We electronically searched the PubMed, PsycInfo and Cochrane databases. To be included, studies needed to be published in a peer-reviewed journal between 1980 and 2008, to involve a human population aged 18+ years and to have an experimental design. RESULTS Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria. Samples were generally small. Interventions were very heterogeneous; most studies used cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and exercise programs either as unique interventions or as part of a multi-component program. Overall, studies showed a favourable effect on anxiety (6/9) and depression (4/8). CBT appeared to be the most effective intervention. There was no effect on the number of shocks and arrhythmic events, probably because studies were not powered to detect such an effect. Physical functioning improved in the three studies evaluating this outcome. Lack of information about the indication for ICD implantation (primary vs. secondary prevention), limited or no information regarding use of anti-arrhythmic (9/12) and psychotropic (10/12) treatment, lack of assessments of providers' treatment fidelity (12/12) and patients' adherence to the intervention (11/12) were the most common methodological limitations. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this review supports preliminary evidence of a positive effect of psychosocial interventions on anxiety and physical functioning in ICD patients. However, these initial findings must be interpreted cautiously because of important methodological limitations. Future studies should be designed as large RCTs, whose design takes into account the specific challenges associated with the evaluation of behavioural interventions.
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Abstract
Pet ownership is an occupation that has benefits for human health and wellbeing. However, research on pet ownership mainly addresses the benefits of interactive pets, such as dogs and cats. Some individuals are unable to participate in the occupation of interactive pet ownership and, therefore, may be deprived of the benefits that pets can bring to their lives. This research used a qualitative, phenomenological methodology to explore the ownership of fish as pets. Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews and were analysed inductively. Nine participants were interviewed and the following themes were identified from the data collected: the reasons for owning fish as pets; the fish environment; caring for fish; and the benefits of owning fish as pets. It was discovered that pet fish ownership is a meaningful occupation that provides purpose and enjoyment in life. The findings of this study suggest that pet fish may be an alternative to interactive pets, and one that therapists can recommend to clients who wish to own a pet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janaya Langfield
- Formerly Occupational Therapy (Honours) Student, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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Das S, O’Keefe JH. Behavioral cardiology: Recognizing and addressing the profound impact of psychosocial stress on cardiovascular health. Curr Hypertens Rep 2008; 10:374-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s11906-008-0070-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Thomas SA, Chapa DW, Friedmann E, Durden C, Ross A, Lee MCY, Lee HJ. Depression in Patients With Heart Failure: Prevalence, Pathophysiological Mechanisms, and Treatment. Crit Care Nurse 2008. [DOI: 10.4037/ccn2008.28.2.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sue A. Thomas
- Sue A. Thomas is a professor and assistant dean of the doctoral program, Erika Friedmann is a professor, and Cheryl Durden, Alyson Ross, Mei Ching Y. Lee, and Hyeon-Joo Lee are doctoral students at the School of Nursing, University of Maryland, in Baltimore
| | - Deborah Wince Chapa
- Deborah Chapa is an assistant professor and program director of the acute care nurse practitioner program at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers. She is also director of midlevel providers of critical care services at Lee Memorial Health System, Fort Myers, Florida
| | - Erika Friedmann
- Sue A. Thomas is a professor and assistant dean of the doctoral program, Erika Friedmann is a professor, and Cheryl Durden, Alyson Ross, Mei Ching Y. Lee, and Hyeon-Joo Lee are doctoral students at the School of Nursing, University of Maryland, in Baltimore
| | - Cheryl Durden
- Sue A. Thomas is a professor and assistant dean of the doctoral program, Erika Friedmann is a professor, and Cheryl Durden, Alyson Ross, Mei Ching Y. Lee, and Hyeon-Joo Lee are doctoral students at the School of Nursing, University of Maryland, in Baltimore
| | - Alyson Ross
- Sue A. Thomas is a professor and assistant dean of the doctoral program, Erika Friedmann is a professor, and Cheryl Durden, Alyson Ross, Mei Ching Y. Lee, and Hyeon-Joo Lee are doctoral students at the School of Nursing, University of Maryland, in Baltimore
| | - Mei Ching Y. Lee
- Sue A. Thomas is a professor and assistant dean of the doctoral program, Erika Friedmann is a professor, and Cheryl Durden, Alyson Ross, Mei Ching Y. Lee, and Hyeon-Joo Lee are doctoral students at the School of Nursing, University of Maryland, in Baltimore
| | - Hyeon-Joo Lee
- Sue A. Thomas is a professor and assistant dean of the doctoral program, Erika Friedmann is a professor, and Cheryl Durden, Alyson Ross, Mei Ching Y. Lee, and Hyeon-Joo Lee are doctoral students at the School of Nursing, University of Maryland, in Baltimore
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Barker SB, Wolen AR. The benefits of human-companion animal interaction: a review. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2008; 35:487-495. [PMID: 19228898 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.35.4.487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a review of research published since 1980 on the benefits of human-companion animal interaction. Studies focusing on the benefits of pet ownership are presented first, followed by research on the benefits of interacting with companion animals that are not owned by the subject (animal-assisted activities). While most of the published studies are descriptive and have been conducted with convenience samples, a promising number of controlled studies support the health benefits of interacting with companion animals. Future research employing more rigorous designs and systematically building upon a clearly defined line of inquiry is needed to advance our knowledge of the benefits of human-companion animal interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra B Barker
- The School of Medicine Center for Human-Animal Interaction, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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38
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Cole KM, Gawlinski A, Steers N, Kotlerman J. Animal-Assisted Therapy in Patients Hospitalized With Heart Failure. Am J Crit Care 2007. [DOI: 10.4037/ajcc2007.16.6.575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Animal-assisted therapy improves physiological and psychosocial variables in healthy and hypertensive patients.
Objectives To determine whether a 12-minute hospital visit with a therapy dog improves hemodynamic measures, lowers neurohormone levels, and decreases state anxiety in patients with advanced heart failure.
Methods A 3-group randomized repeated-measures experimental design was used in 76 adults. Longitudinal analysis was used to model differences among the 3 groups at 3 times. One group received a 12-minute visit from a volunteer with a therapy dog; another group, a 12-minute visit from a volunteer; and the control group, usual care. Data were collected at baseline, at 8 minutes, and at 16 minutes.
Results Compared with controls, the volunteer-dog group had significantly greater decreases in systolic pulmonary artery pressure during (−4.32 mm Hg, P = .03) and after (−5.78 mm Hg, P = .001) and in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure during (−2.74 mm Hg, P = .01) and after (−4.31 mm Hg, P = .001) the intervention. Compared with the volunteer-only group, the volunteer-dog group had significantly greater decreases in epinephrine levels during (−15.86 pg/mL, P = .04) and after (−17.54 pg/mL, P = .04) and in norepinephrine levels during (−232.36 pg/mL, P = .02) and after (−240.14 pg/mL, P = .02) the intervention. After the intervention, the volunteer-dog group had the greatest decrease from baseline in state anxiety sum score compared with the volunteer-only (−6.65 units, P =.002) and the control groups (−9.13 units, P < .001).
Conclusions Animal-assisted therapy improves cardiopulmonary pressures, neurohormone levels, and anxiety in patients hospitalized with heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathie M. Cole
- Kathie M. Cole is a clinical nurse III in the cardiac care unit, Anna Gawlinskiis the director of evidence-based practice and an adjunct professor, and Jenny Kotlermanis a statistician at the Medical Center and School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles. Neil Steers is an adjunct assistant professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Anna Gawlinski
- Kathie M. Cole is a clinical nurse III in the cardiac care unit, Anna Gawlinskiis the director of evidence-based practice and an adjunct professor, and Jenny Kotlermanis a statistician at the Medical Center and School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles. Neil Steers is an adjunct assistant professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Neil Steers
- Kathie M. Cole is a clinical nurse III in the cardiac care unit, Anna Gawlinskiis the director of evidence-based practice and an adjunct professor, and Jenny Kotlermanis a statistician at the Medical Center and School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles. Neil Steers is an adjunct assistant professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Jenny Kotlerman
- Kathie M. Cole is a clinical nurse III in the cardiac care unit, Anna Gawlinskiis the director of evidence-based practice and an adjunct professor, and Jenny Kotlermanis a statistician at the Medical Center and School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles. Neil Steers is an adjunct assistant professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
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Koivusilta LK, Ojanlatva A. To have or not to have a pet for better health? PLoS One 2006; 1:e109. [PMID: 17205113 PMCID: PMC1762431 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0000109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2006] [Accepted: 11/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pet ownership is thought to have health benefits, but not all scientific explorations have been founded on proper applications of representative samples or statistically correct methodologies. Databanks have been too small for proper statistical analyses; or, instead of a random sample, participation has been voluntary. The direction of causality has been evaluated incorrectly or control of relevant factors noted deficient. This study examined the associations of pet ownership with perceived health and disease indicators by taking into account socio-demographic background factors together with health risk factors, including exercise. Methodology/Principal Findings The present study used baseline data from the 15-year Health and Social Support Study (the HeSSup Study). The Finnish Population Register Centre was used to draw population-based random samples stratified according to gender and four age groups (20–24, 30–34, 40–44, and 50–54 years). A total of 21,101 working-aged Finns responded to the baseline survey questionnaire of the 15-year HeSSup Study in 1998. Ordinal and binary logistic regression was used to analyze the cross-sectional data. Pet ownership was associated with poor rather than good perceived health. BMI surfaced as the risk factor most strongly associated with pet ownership. Conclusions/Significance Pet owners set in their ways and getting older were found to have a slightly higher BMI than the rest. Additional research is needed for the testing of hypotheses involving effects of pet ownership with various health dimensions within population groups that are composed of different kinds of background characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena K. Koivusilta
- Institutions and Social Mechanisms (IASM) Consortium, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ansa Ojanlatva
- Department of Teacher Education and Institute of Biomedicine, Center for Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku City Hospital, Turku, Finland
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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Friedmann E, Thomas SA, Liu F, Morton PG, Chapa D, Gottlieb SS. Relationship of depression, anxiety, and social isolation to chronic heart failure outpatient mortality. Am Heart J 2006; 152:940.e1-8. [PMID: 17070164 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2006.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2005] [Accepted: 05/15/2006] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Psychosocial Factors Outcome Study (PFOS) investigated the prevalence of depression and anxiety and the relationship of psychosocial factors to mortality in outpatients with heart failure (HF). BACKGROUND Considerable evidence links psychosocial factors to coronary heart disease mortality and sudden cardiac death (SCD). The contribution of psychosocial factors independent of disease severity to HF outpatient mortality is not well elucidated. METHODS Patients (N = 153) from 20 Sudden Cardiac Death in Heart Failure Trial (SCD-HeFT) sites participated in the PFOS. SCD-HeFT provided demographic, medical history, and cardiac data. Participants completed questionnaires to assess psychosocial status at PFOS entry. RESULTS Depression and anxiety were common in HF outpatients (36% Beck Depression Inventory-II > or = 13; 45% State Trait Anxiety Inventory > or = 40). Depression, anxiety, and social support amount did not differ in the SCD-HeFT treatment groups: implantable cardioverter defibrillator, amiodarone, and placebo medication. Fifteen (9.8%) patients died during mean follow-up at 23.6 months (SD = 8.2). In Cox regression controlling for treatment, depression, anxiety, and social isolation separately predicted mortality; perceived HF-specific functional status did not. Depression (ln) [P = .04, hazard ratio (HR) = 1.81] and social isolation (P = .04, HR = 2.25), but not anxiety, predicted mortality independent of demographics, clinical predictors, and treatment. When simultaneously including significant demographic, clinical, and psychosocial predictors and treatment groups, depression (ln) (P = .022, HR = 2.2) and social isolation (P = .094, HR = 1.75) predicted mortality. All-cause mortality was 12% for depressed patients and 9% for others. CONCLUSION This study finds a high prevalence of anxiety and confirms the high prevalence of depression in the HF outpatient population. Depression and social isolation predicted mortality independent of demographic and clinical status in HF outpatients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Friedmann
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Das S, O'Keefe JH. Behavioral cardiology: recognizing and addressing the profound impact of psychosocial stress on cardiovascular health. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2006; 8:111-8. [PMID: 16510045 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-006-0048-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Psychosocial stress exerts independent adverse effects on cardiovascular health. The recent INTERHEART study reported that psychosocial stress accounted for approximately 30% of the attributable risk of acute myocardial infarction. Prospective studies consistently indicate that hostility, depression, and anxiety are all related to increased risk of coronary heart disease and cardiovascular death. A sense of hopelessness, in particular, appears to be strongly correlated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Time urgency and impatience have not been consistently related to risk of coronary disease, but do increase the likelihood of developing hypertension. Psychosocial stress appears to adversely affect autonomic and hormonal homeostasis, resulting in metabolic abnormalities, inflammation, insulin resistance, and endothelial dysfunction. Additionally, stress is often associated with self-destructive behavior and noncompliance with medications. Psychosocial stress is a highly modifiable risk and many factors have been shown to be protective. These include psychosocial support, regular exercise, stress reduction training, sense of humor, optimism, altruism, faith, and pet ownership. Simple screening questions are available to reliably indicate a patient at risk for psychosocial stress-related health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajal Das
- Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO 64111, USA
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Virués-Ortega J, Buela-Casal G. Psychophysiological effects of human-animal interaction: theoretical issues and long-term interaction effects. J Nerv Ment Dis 2006; 194:52-7. [PMID: 16462556 DOI: 10.1097/01.nmd.0000195354.03653.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This paper reviews literature published on the psychophysiological effects of long-term human-animal interaction (i.e., pet ownership, pet adoption). A literature search was conducted using PsycInfo and Medline databases. Although the available evidence is far from being consistent, it can be concluded that, in some cases, long-term relationships with animals may moderate baseline physiological variables, particularly blood pressure. Results proved more coherent in studies where animals were adopted by owners as part of the procedure. This paper examines existing hypotheses seeking to account for these effects and the supporting evidence. Two major hypotheses have been suggested to explain the psychophysiological effects of long-term interaction, namely (1) stress-buffering effects of noncritical social support provided by pets; and (2) classical conditioning of relaxation. These mechanisms may partially account for the long-term health outcomes observed in a number of human-animal interaction studies.
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MESH Headings
- Adaptation, Psychological/physiology
- Animals
- Animals, Domestic/physiology
- Blood Pressure/physiology
- Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena
- Conditioning, Classical/physiology
- Heart Rate/physiology
- Human-Animal Bond
- Humans
- Models, Biological
- Psychophysiology
- Relaxation/physiology
- Social Support
- Stress Disorders, Traumatic, Acute/prevention & control
- Stress Disorders, Traumatic, Acute/psychology
- Stress, Psychological/prevention & control
- Stress, Psychological/psychology
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Olshansky
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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