Abstract
Purpose/Objectives: The study examined whether the bond with a companion dog is associated with well-being among people with cancer, and described the perceived benefits, challenges, and needs accompanying the relationship with the dog.Design: The design was cross-sectional.Sample: Participants were 140 people recently diagnosed with cancer with at least one dog in their household.Methods: The online survey included measures of the human–pet bond, depressive symptoms, positive affect, and health-related quality of life, as well as open-ended questions about the experience of having a dog since being diagnosed with cancer.Findings: Although the bond with a companion dog was not directly linked with well-being, the association between the human–pet bond and depressive symptoms depended in part on treatment status.Conclusions: Companion dogs may play an important role in the lives of people recently diagnosed with cancer.Implications for psychosocial providers: Health care providers can help to support the bond with a companion dog.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
