Study Quantifies Pet Ownership’s Life Satisfaction Boost, Equating It to Marriage or £70,000 Income

University of Kent researchers reveal that owning a cat or dog significantly enhances well-being, with findings suggesting potential policy shifts to expand access to pet companionship.

New research from the University of Kent quantifies the emotional and physical benefits of pet ownership, equating its impact on life satisfaction to marriage or an annual income boost of £70,000.
The study analyzed data from 2,500 British households using the 'life satisfaction approach,' a method that translates intangible benefits into monetary equivalents.
Pet ownership was linked to improved physical health, including reduced stress, lower heart rates, and better cardiovascular outcomes, alongside heightened psychological well-being.
Distinct personality traits were observed among pet owners, with dog owners tending to be more extroverted and agreeable, while cat owners scored higher in intellectual curiosity.
The findings are spurring discussions on policy changes, such as easing pet restrictions in housing and promoting therapy animal programs, to enhance public well-being.