Pets Help Keep Us Grounded

Psychologists project that COVID-19 will trigger post-traumatic stress symptoms in many people across the world (Liu et al., 2020). The lack of social support is one of the most critical predictors of developing these symptoms (Ozer et al., 2003). However, eighteen months into the pandemic, we are still limited in how we interact with others. When in-person human support is not available, it is critical to find options to fill this void. Research shows that pets can act as an alternative source of social support and consistency in uncertain times (Mueller & Hunter, 2019).

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Multiple theories attempt to explain why people turn to their pets for social support. One theory suggests that humans are innately drawn to other living things (Wilson, 1984). According to this theory, the bonds between humans and other living animals are essential to safety and security. The emotional bonds created through attachment with animals can offer significant support to us during traumatic and uncertain times like the pandemic. Research suggests that this bond facilitates healing in ways like human-to-human relationships after a traumatic event (Lopez and Blow, 2017). Research also shows that the emotional bond shared between people and animals may also offer a source of non-judgmental support and unconditional positive love (Nieforth and O’Haire, 2020).

Mitigating the Effects of Uncertainty

As we move through the COVID-19 pandemic, managing uncertainty is essential to prevent lasting effects from the traumatic experience. According to uncertainty management theory (Brashers, 2001), we have an ideal level of certainty that we try to attain typically through seeking or avoiding information (Kosenko et al., 2014). Our social networks are where we seek information or provide us a haven to avoid information. Social support from a pet is unique in that the pet cannot directly provide information or alter a situation to make the experience less uncertain. However, pets may help us perceive the situation as less uncertain because caring for the pet is a consistent and predictable routine in a turbulent environment. The perception of predictability may indirectly decrease an individual’s perceived level of uncertainty. Because we turn to our pets for solace instead of information, pets are incredibly comforting for those living alone or physically isolated. Research shows that contact comfort is crucial during times of stress (Morrison, 2016).

With varying social restrictions in place, perhaps a pet might be just what you need to mitigate some of the lasting symptoms of living with a long period of uncertainty. I know my little dogs are a constant reminder to enjoy every moment, not hold grudges, and accept myself and others unconditionally.

References

Brashers, D. E. (2001). Communication and uncertainty management. Journal of Communication, 51, 477–497. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1460-2466.2001.tb02892.x

Kosenko, K. A., Harvey-Knowles, J., & Hurley, R. J. (2014). The information management processes of women living with HPV. Journal of Health Communication, 19, 813– 824. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10810730.2013.864728

Morrison, I. (2016). Keep calm and cuddle on: Social touch as a stress buffer. Adaptive Human Behavior and Physiology, 2, 344–362. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40750-016-0052-x. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s40750-016-0052-x

Liu, N., Zhang, F., Wei, C., Jia, Y., Shang, Z., Sun, L., . . . Liu, W. (2020). Prevalence and predictors of PTSS during COVID-19 outbreak in China’s hardest-hit areas: Gender differences matter. Psychiatry Research, 287, 112921. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.112921

López-Zerón, G., & Blow, A. (2017). The role of relationships and families in healing from trauma. Journal of Family Therapy, 39, 580–597. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1467-6427.12089

Nieforth, L. O., & O'Haire, M. E. (2020). The role of pets in managing uncertainty from COVID-19. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 12(S1), S245.

Ozer, E. J., Best, S. R., Lipsey, T. L., & Weiss, D. S. (2003). Predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder and symptoms in adults: A meta-analysis.

Psychological Bulletin, 129, 52–73. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.129.1.52