Published Paper Details:

This study adopted a cross-sectional design to explore the relationship between pet ownership and psychological well-being, specifically focusing on stress, anxiety, and depression. The objective was to determine whether pet companionship could be linked to lower levels of these mental health concerns when compared to individuals without pets. A representative sample of 150 residents from Bengaluru was selected, with 75 participants owning at least one pet and the other 75 being non-pet owners. To assess the levels of stress, anxiety, and depression in both groups, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), a 21-item questionnaire, was administered. The analysis of data and t-Test scores revealed that individuals with pets exhibited significantly lower levels of depression than those who did not have pets, suggesting a potential beneficial effect of pet companionship on mental health, particularly in the context of depressive symptoms.