2007-09-09 06:58:58 · 6 answers · asked by suzie 3 in Health ➔ Mental Health
Oh, most definitely. I have a cat not a dog right now but she is on the ball with the "my human is sad...I must cuddle now!" thing. When I was younger and really bad off the family jack russell terrier who adores and usually sleeps with my little sister would crawl into bed with me or spend nights sleeping in my lap on the couch. A good animal knows when you're not feeling well and they always try to cuddle up during that time. And sometimes the unconditional love of an animal is just a wonderful bright spot in a world that's otherwise not so shiny and good.
2007-09-09 08:57:45 · answer #1 · answered by evilangelfaery919 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, they can for all the reasons mentioned thus far. I just want to add one more thing: if you get a dog, they need at least one to two walks per day and exercise also helps depression, so you get an added bonus to your health. My family has 2 cats and one dog, and they are loving members of the family. They do seem to give me more attention on my stressful days, too! They are so loveable!
2007-09-09 18:27:00 · answer #2 · answered by Bluebird 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
heya. firstly, to answer your question: YES. i studied animal care at college and people can actually volunteer to take their cat/dog to a nursing home or children's hospital for the patients/residents to hold and comfort. i find a purring cat very relaxing. its a bit yukky when a dog licks your face, but they are only doing it cos they think of you as their pack leader. but, to get to the point, yes, in my opinion, pets DO aid depression :-)
2007-09-09 20:33:25 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definately!! I saw a special report where they give olf folks in a nursing home dogs for comfort who have no living family members or who are just plain "down and out". There a pain in the butt sometimes but they love you unconditionally!!
2007-09-09 14:08:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They can. Lots of nursing homes have found that having an animal around makes a big difference. Animals seem to accept us the way we are. They are great company.
2007-09-09 14:07:58 · answer #5 · answered by Simmi 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They can for some people. They can reduce stress as well as help a person feel more loved and appreciated. Pets are great friends and are very enjoyable to have around which is good for anyone.
2007-09-09 14:05:45 · answer #6 · answered by softballchickie87 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋