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4.2 Benefits of the Human–Animal Bond (HAB)
Many publications describe the physical, mental and socio-economic bene-
fits of appropriate, well-matched and supported human–animal relationships.
Some describe in detail the factors connected to improved well-being
that can lead to support in recovery from major illness, prevention of
ill-health, enhanced social interactions, improvements to self-esteem,
elevated mood, increased mental resilience or fewer visits to the doctor.
Overall this results in wider community and societal benefits, from con-
tributions in the form of savings to wider healthcare expenditure, or to
improvements to the local social community (Clower and Neaves, 2015;
Hall et al., 2017).
Practical case studies show how social isolation and general physical
and mental frailty can be supported by companion animal ownership,
in a way that offers mutual positive benefits. However, it is important
to note that interactions need to be managed and properly resourced to
prevent negative effects. These may include deferral of important surgery
or hospitalization; deferring spending money on the owners’ health for
the sake of a pet or fear that an animal may be hurt or die if unattended;
or failure to evacuate in an emergency situation through fear for their
animal’s safety (Hunt et al., 2012). Other negative effects that can impact
on human well-being may include being woken in the night (Christiansen
et al., 2013).
