Most people prefer to de-stress with pets over partners, new research finds
A majority of pet owners would prefer to spend time with their fluffy friends when they are stressed rather than with their partners, according to new research.
A global survey of 30,000 pet owners found that 65 per cent of people would prefer to de-stress in the company of their dog, cat or other household pet – significantly more than those who said their partners (37 per cent), family (24 per cent), children (22 per cent) or friends (21 per cent).
More than half of pet owners – 59 per cent – said their pets provided company without the need to talk during stressful times, while nearly a quarter said their pet provided a space for them to express worries or concerns without expecting a response.
But for most pet owners – 90 per cent of them – the simple presence of their pet is relaxing, offering a sense of calm that doesn't require words or actions.
The findings, commissioned by pet care business Mars and mental health company Calm, also revealed how pets can reinforce other good mental health habits, such as encouraging us to step away from screens, spend more time outdoors and take a break from work and chores.
Almost eight in 10 said their pet reminds them to pause and take a break from work, chores or tasks, while 77 per cent said their pet encourages them to take a break away from screens.
The heartwarming results make it no surprise that nine in 10 Aussies surveyed said their pet had positively impacted their mental wellbeing.
'While we love our pets, we often don't realise how much they give back,' Dr Tammie King, a specialist in human-animal interaction and senior research manager at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute said.
'Reframing your pet's daily 'interruptions' as loving reminders to pause, breathe and be present can be a powerful wellness tool.
'Research shows that touch-based pet interactions can boost oxytocin levels in humans.
'The findings of this survey will help more people reflect on and acknowledge the little wellbeing moments pets nudge us towards on a daily basis.'
The survey marks the launch of a partnership between Mars – which produces pet care brands including Pedigree, Royal Canin and Whiskas – and meditation app Calm.
The businesses have joined forces to shine a light on how our furry friends can boost our mental health through a pet-inspired content series.
The content is designed to help users relax, reflect and recharge.
In addition to the content series, Mars and Calm have launched a social media campaign to find stories from pet owners of their pets, to explore how they help our mental health.
The stories will become inspiration for Calm content later in the year.
'We know that small, intentional moments of calm can have a big impact on our overall wellbeing, and our pets have an incredible way of guiding us there,' Dr Chris Mosunic, chief clinical officer at Calm said.
'A quick dog walk or cat cuddle at our desk when they stroll in front of the screen, can provide a simple moment to reset and recharge.
'We're proud to partner with Mars and bring this data to the forefront to highlight the potential of our bond with pets and help more people discover the wonderful wellbeing benefits our relationship with pets can bring.'
For more information on the Mars x Calm partnership, visit: kinship.com/petsandwellbeing
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
7NEWS
a day ago
- 7NEWS
This viral snail serum is more than 40% off: More than 4000 Aussies have purchased it this past month alone
More than 4000 Aussies, have purchased this viral snail serum in the past month alone. Snail serum? What for? You might ask. But this COSRX Snail Mucin 96 per cent Power Repairing Essence has become a staple in many peoples skincare routines, including my own. The key ingredient in this viral essence is 96 per cent snail secretion filtrate, a powerhouse component celebrated for its ability to repair damaged skin, boost elasticity, and lock in moisture. Originating from South Korea, snail mucin has long been a staple in the K-beauty community for its multi-functional benefits and gentle nature, making it suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin. Amazon Australia is currently offering this best-selling essence for more than 40 per cent off, down from its usual price of $38.50 to just $19.50. Whether you're new to K-beauty or already a loyal fan of COSRX, this is a deal worth grabbing. I am definitely stocking up. What sets COSRX's formula apart is its minimalist approach — it includes only the essential ingredients needed to nourish, rejuvenate, and protect the skin without unnecessary additives. The essence is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and designed to combat dullness and fine lines, leaving the skin looking smoother, plumper, and more radiant. Whether you're dealing with post-acne marks, dehydrated skin, or the early signs of aging, this Korean skincare gem offers a simple yet powerful solution — proving that sometimes, less truly is more when it comes to achieving healthy, glowing skin. Shoppers have given the COSRX snail serum, a 4.5-star rating on Amazon Australia's website. 'I am so glad I finally tried it! It's worth it. Such a luxurious feel on the skin, soaks in well and very quickly, and leaves my skin feeling hydrated and refreshed,' one impressed shopper wrote. 'I have been using the Snail Mucin Essence daily for over a year now, and it's become a product I repurchase without hesitation,' another happy customer added. 'Absolutely love this, this is my third bottle, ' a third reviewer commented.
7NEWS
a day ago
- 7NEWS
Swisse celebrates World Wellness Day and the chance to win a $1,000 Luxury Escapes gift card
This World Wellness Day, Swisse is flipping the script on romance with a new 'love language', and you can win a $1,000 luxury holiday just by showing someone you care. It's official: the bar for romance in 2025 has been raised. Or more accurately, redefined. Thanks to new research from Swisse Wellness, Australians are swapping love notes for vitamin reminders, and it turns out we're kind of into it. To celebrate World Wellness Day (Saturday June 14), Swisse introduced a fresh take on how we express love and no, it didn't involve overpriced roses or last-minute dinner bookings. The new name of the game? Acts of Wellness, a sixth love language inspired by the iconic five, but with a functional twist. Backed by research revealing that 73 per cent of Aussies already see caring for someone's wellbeing as a top-tier romantic gesture, Swisse is leading a movement that makes everyday support feel just as special as candlelit dinners. Think of it as love, but with practical perks and maybe a B vitamin or two. This shift isn't just cute, it's backed by data. According to a survey commissioned by Swisse, over 90 per cent of Australians define wellness as way more than just juice cleanses and morning jogs. And 87 per cent of us are already the unofficial health manager in our relationships, booking doctor appointments, suggesting magnesium for sore muscles, or sneakily replacing their third coffee with a calming tea. To put it all into practice, Swisse has matched each traditional love language with a wellness-led counterpart. Here's your cheat sheet: Physical touch? Say hello to Magnesium Glycinate, the supplement that keeps cuddles cramp-free. Words of affirmation? Pair them with Focus Nootropics so your compliments hit sharper than ever. Quality time? Make it more present with Ashwagandha Calm+, for stress-free hangouts. Gift giving? Try Swisse's HA Water Cream — it's skincare with main character energy. Acts of service? Don't underestimate the power of Vitamin D Gummies and a reminder to stretch. Acts of wellness? Zinc+, for that daily immune boost that keeps everyone in your circle healthy. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. It's the kind of love language that doesn't need a big declaration. It looks like handing someone a supplement before their morning meeting or Googling ' natural remedies for bloating ' at 1 am, because they mentioned it in passing. According to psychologist Carly Dober, who partnered with Swisse for this campaign, those small but thoughtful actions are what real care looks like in 2025. 'In relationships, these daily gestures often go unnoticed, but they're deeply validating,' she says. 'They're proof someone's paying attention.' Because, let's face it, love expressed through wellness still deserves a little luxury on the side. So, this World Wellness Day, maybe skip the red roses.
7NEWS
2 days ago
- 7NEWS
Best weight loss protein shake loved by hundreds of Aussies launches biggest EOFY sale yet: Collagen Co
Aussies can't stop raving about The Collagen Co.'s delicious Glow Shakes and for good reason. The shakes have led to many incredible health transformations as well as thicker hair, glowing skin and healthier nails. Now is the perfect time to try The Collagen Co., if you haven't already because its treating customers to its biggest end-of-financial year event. The sale is offering shoppers up to 20 per cent off sitewide, just use the code SALE20 at checkout until July 7. With demand expected to surge, this limited-time offer is the perfect opportunity to dive into the world of beauty nutrition or replenish your go-to products at a fraction of the price. What sets The Collagen Co apart in a crowded wellness space is its fusion of form and function. Known for its sleek packaging and irresistible flavours, the brand goes far beyond surface appeal. At its core, The Collagen Co. is built on science-backed formulations, clean ingredients, and a commitment to making wellness both effective and enjoyable. This is self-care that fits effortlessly into your day, without compromise. The Glow Shakes feature a high-performance blend of collagen, protein, fibre, and essential nutrients in flavours like Chocolate Milkshake, Salted Caramel, and Violet Crumble. Designed for people with full schedules and high standards, these shakes offer a satisfying alternative to traditional snacks or skipped meals. They're nutrient-dense, full of flavour, and crafted to complement an active lifestyle. Shoppers have given the shakes, a 4.8-star rating on The Collagen Co.'s website. 'Lost 6 kgs in 1 month! Finally something that works,' one happy shopper wrote. 'Bloating gone and down a dress size! Best tasting shakes ever,' another shopper added. 'It keeps me full until dinner time. So easy to slim down,' a third reviewer commented. Another hero in the line-up is the Super Beauty Greens which is carefully curated greens powder formulated to boost gut health, enhance skin radiance, and support everyday vitality. With 5 grams of hydrolysed collagen peptides, 17 superfoods, prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes, it's a daily ritual that delivers. Available in three refreshing flavours — Strawberry Kiwi, Tropical Punch, and Apple Blackcurrant, it's a far cry from your standard grassy green blend. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the brand, this is your chance to stock up, save big, and take your wellness game to the next level.
