A Pet’s Impact On Mental Health

Owning a pet can impact our mental health in both positive and negative ways.

Pets offer support and keep owners active, which can ultimately boost serotonin, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This can significantly improve an individual’s mental health.

“Having a pet has helped me in a positive way, due to the fact that every time I come home I have a reason to smile, he makes me happy, and he keeps me productive,” says pet owner Angie Garcia.

We often acknowledge all of the positives in pet ownership, but what about the negatives?

Owning a pet comes with great responsibility. In addition, the death of a pet can impact an individual in negative ways.

“When you have a pet and you spend every day with them, you share everything with them, you become attached to them, and sadly when they have to go away, it’s kind of like losing a member of your family,” said former pet owner David Molinero.

Fresno State students in need of mental health services can visit the Student Health and Counseling Center located on Campus.