Does your pet help you fight off depression

Question

I'm taking a quick survey for a paper I'm writing tonight - any input would be appreciated and even quoted.

So does your pet help you fight off depression or symptoms of depression? I know my dog does - my husband is halfway across the world (we're both military - he's in Belgium and I'm in the US). Not only is our dog a huge part of family but of the main reasons I got him was to keep me company.

So:

Do you feel like your pets companionship/affection is helpful and sufficient?

Are you less focused on your depression because of the amusement you get from your pet (funny, active, etc)?

Because of the exercise your pets needs (ex: dog owners, etc) taking your pet for walk or exercise - do you feel like you a are forced to be less isolated from the human world (ex. dog parks, pet stores, neighbors, friends, social gatherings like horse competitions or training)?

Answer 1

I think some pets might, but not all. I am currently suffering from depression, and I have a pet Iguana, and it does not help at all. Maybe a more social or interactive pet might?

Answer 2

It has been shown that an animal in nursing homes do help the residents feel better about themselves and boosts their moods.  It has also been proven that petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure.  I know that when I am feeling sad, my dog seems to know it and she comes over and lays her head on my lap as if to soothe me and let me know that everything is going to be okay.  It seems to work for me, at least most of the time.  

Answer 3

My husband has reduced the mg of his depression meds since he got his dog.

Answer 4

I'm thinking yes, a affectionate lower keyed dog may, or the same type of cat, I mean ones that aren't going to be stressful when I mean low key.

some dogs more more in turn with the owner than others.  that kind of dog or cat even would be good.  maybe fish they are supposed to be calming, I love my fish.  its hard to set up though, at least it was for me, but once its set up with all the right algae, and so forth.  after that its easy.

and find out which fish don't kill each other.  I wouldn't want to think how may fish died in my tank at the beginning.  I was new with fish. now everything is perfect. :)  So if you don't know whats going on with fish it may keep you busy, but not relaxing worrying about if a fish is about to die or not.   :(

anyways I bet any animal a person has a passion for would be helpful.  as long as they aren't overly trying.  As a depressed person may be irritable and not want to deal with a difficult pet.