New survey: 95% of pet parents rely on their pet for stress relief

The American Heart Association’s Healthy Bond for Life™ releases new survey highlighting mental and physical health benefits of pet companionship

DALLAS, June 20, 2022 — Nearly all cat and dog owners rely on their pets for stress relief according to a new survey released by the American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all.

Additionally, of the 1,000 pet parents surveyed in May 2022 by Wakefield Research for the American Heart Association’s Healthy Bond for LifeTM initiative, 7 in 10 said they prefer spending time with their cat or dog to relieve stress over watching television (30%).

Companion animals are beloved members of the family. In fact, the survey found 69% of pet parents say they take better care of their pet than themselves.

To celebrate the bond between people and their pets, the American Heart Association is bringing back Best Friend Fridays. Each Friday in June, July and August, people are encouraged to share photos on social media showing how their pets are helping them stress less and practice healthy habits using the hashtag #BestFriendFridays.

Continue reading at Newsroom

Photo Credit: