Can pets really make you happier than marriage? A new study says yes

You know that feeling you get when you're having a tough day, and then you lift your cat or cuddle your dog and suddenly, everything feels a little lighter? That feeling isn’t just in your head.

For many people, pets can bring a sense of joy and improve overall well-being. 

According to a CNN article, researchers from the University of Kent found that owning a pet can boost happiness levels in a way that’s similar to being married or regularly spending time with loved ones. The mental and emotional benefits, they say, could be worth as much as $123,000 CAD ($90,000 US) a year in life satisfaction. 

For some, pets offer more than just companionship; they help build life skills. 

"I've had my cats, Taco and Momo, for two years before I had my first child, and having them prepared me to be a father and care for a kid," said Varun Chhibber, senior manager of insurance marketing at CAA North & East Ontario. "They have brought so much to my life; it's hard to imagine what it was like before I had pets."

Most people are already aware that owning a dog can be beneficial for both mental and physical health. However, scientists still don't entirely agree on the extent to which pets affect overall well-being. 

Some argue that pets may not make people happier, but rather that happy, healthy individuals are more likely to own pets in the first place. 

To account for this, the University of Kent researchers examined data on personality traits, pet ownership, and life satisfaction to understand the relationship better. 

If pets do improve happiness as much as the study suggests, Adelina Gschwandtner, co-author of the study, said policymakers should consider making it easier for people to own them, such as loosening restrictions for renters with pets. 

At the same time, experts caution against treating pets exactly like people. While the emotional bond between humans and animals can be powerful, it isn't the same as human relationships. 

Researcher Meghan Mueller told CNN that although animals provide social and emotional support, it's different from the kind of support we receive from family and friends. 

Even so, the care and connection we give our pets and receive are still meaningful.

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