MHM Magazine

22 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2025 | Issue 1 MHM renaming to 'physical distancing'— is now recognized as harmful as the virus itself. The negative impact of isolation was severe. Pets frequently help to fill a void. Instead of returning to an empty house, people of all ages come home to a joyful, affectionate animal that offers comfort and companionship. A lady recently widowed, moved into a retirement village and gives this testimony: Dealing with grief and the change of home was quite traumatic and challenging. I took my dog and two cats with me and this made all the difference. Purring in stereo and a dog at my feet was immeasurably comforting. For me, coming home to three sets of eyes ready to greet me is always a pleasure. Tail wagging and purring is one of life’s pleasures and I am truly grateful for it. I am not alone; I have three friends here. The house never feels empty, there is life here. Not only older people need companionship, young people often leave home and live alone due to educational or work-related relocations. At all stages of life being alone is a social adjustment is difficult. Stress narratives from professionals Koch, a medical practitioner and academic researcher, has published testimony to the important role his cats play in his mental well-being. In a different context, courtrooms are usually filled with tension and re-telling of harrowing experiences of crime. The Bellville specialised crime court is home to “Klokkies” the cat who is a welcome member because of her calming influence on magistrates, suspects, attorneys and court employees. Therapeutic narratives The therapeutic use of animals such as dogs, cats, horses, and fish to mention a few, has been extensively studied. Evidence based research confirms the positive impact of animal-assisted therapy in schools, hospitals, hospices, and aged care facilities. Dr. David Dosa, a geriatrician in hospice care, documented instances where cats sensed patients’ imminent passing, providing comfort until their final moments. Service dogs assist, not only visually impaired people, but also people struggling with conditions like epilepsy, diabetes and neurodiversity. Across Europe, America, and Canada, the important role of service animals is recognised and they’re permitted on public transport. Some airlines are also allowing pets to travel with their owners. Animals have a sensitivity to the emotional needs of humans. There is significant research-based evidence regarding the efficacy of working with animals to assist people who have experienced significant trauma, as well as young children diagnosed with neuro-diverse conditions, such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder. The canine squad is used successfully in search and rescue situations, as well as combating crime in all countries. Nay-sayers In a rich debate, there is always room for the other side of the story. The negative debate regarding cats claims that cats because they are predatory animals interfere with wildlife. The domestic cat is present on all continents, but only in some regions can it be considered native. The negative debate emanates from New World countries, (North America, Australia New Zealand etc) where cats were introduced relatively recently by humans. As a result, large populations of unwanted feral cats are neglected and have become problematic. Humans, in fact, represent the most invasive vertebrate species and in a way their management of other species. Africa is home to cats of all kinds. Keeping cats well fed and indoors, limiting their roaming with “catios”, and adding bells and bright ruffs on collars reduces their predatory habits. The most persuasive argument for cat owners to keep their cats inside may be the dangers posed by meso-predators, cars and pathogens. This may never be truer than in an African setting, with its high complement of predators and diseases. Final thoughts Moving forward in a rapidly changing world, it’s important to appreciate life’s unquantifiable aspects, such as the companionship of animals, that shape our well-being. We need to be reminded of the limiting impact of making totalising assumptions when making decisions regarding the value of pet-ownership. • Pet ownership has become an integral part in the lives of people of all ages and plays an important role in well-being. • Longitudinal evidence suggests that pet ownership and dog walking contribute to maintaining biopsychosocial and cognitive function with aging. There is a need to support pet ownership in design of senior communities. • PAT (Pets as Therapy http:// pat.org.za ) provides services of care for pets of older adults’ pets while they are temporarily unable to do so. • Estates that permit animals may be a better investment in the long-term well-being of owners. Eco-friendly estates should consider rules which are rational and conducive to harmonious human-animal interaction. As practitioners • We can explore the possibilities of human-animal interaction as a therapeutic tool for patients • • We can advocate for people to be allowed to have animals which could be beneficial, when appropriate In conclusion, pet ownership significantly enhances well-being by providing companionship, reducing stress, and promoting better physical health in all realms of the biopsychosocial model. The positive impact on holistic well- being has been well documented. As we navigate a rapidly changing world, it is essential to recognise and support the invaluable role that pets play. We need to ensure that policies of estates and communities are designed to accommodate and promote the healing bond of human-animal interaction. References available on request. MHM | 2025 | Volume 12 | Issue 1 | The Healing Bond: Exploring Pet Ownership and Its Impact on Well-Being H