Does having a pet benefit your health and longevity?

A qualitative study among 14 community-dwelling older adults (aged 65 and over) shows that a pet contributes to well-being in four ways: comfort and a sense of security, more social contact with others, more daily structure, and a meaningful role in life (PMID 31242754). These are experiences that people report themselves, not measured clinical outcomes. The sample is small and the results cannot be generalised to the population at large.

A 2015 review article concludes that both pet ownership and brief human-animal interaction are associated with better cardiovascular measures and lower feelings of loneliness (PMID 26164613). Quasi-experimental research suggests the relationship may also be causal, but large randomised controlled studies with a clearly demonstrated biological mechanism are still lacking. The strength of the evidence therefore remains limited.

Regarding longevity and mortality specifically, the available sources contain no evidence. Based on these studies, no statement can be made about whether a pet helps you live longer. This is an important distinction: greater well-being and possibly better cardiovascular measures do not automatically mean a longer lifespan.

There are also practical considerations. Pets require time, money and physical energy. For frail older adults, caring for an animal can become a burden rather than a support. Allergies, falls caused by the animal and infection risks are real concerns that are not discussed in depth in the available sources but should be part of any informed decision.