Abstract
Simple SummaryThe purpose of this qualitative study was to examine how Covid-19 restrictions influenced dog owners’ relationships and sense of connection with their canine companions. Data were collected through an on-line survey and themes from open-ended questions were coded by the researchers using directed content analysis. Results highlighted a strong human–animal appreciation, and that dog ownership during this pandemic diminished participants’ sense of isolation and loneliness, as well as supported their mental/physical health.The Covid-19 pandemic has been found to negatively impact the psychological well-being of significant numbers of people globally. Many individuals have been challenged by social distancing mandates and the resultant social isolation. Humans, in our modern world, have rarely been as isolated and socially restricted. Social connectedness and support are critical protective factors for human survival and well-being. Social isolation can lead to loneliness, boredom, and can become a risk factor for physical and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The attachments formed with dogs, however, can be as strong or even stronger than human connections, and has been shown to relate to fewer physical health and mental health problems, as well as decrease isolation and loneliness. The purpose of this qualitative research was to examine the thoughts, experiences and concerns of 4105 adults regarding their companion dog during the initial months of Covid-19. Data were collected between March 31st–April 19th, 2020 via online survey and themes were coded by the researchers using directed content analysis. Results highlighted a strong human–animal appreciation, and that dog ownership during this pandemic diminished participants’ sense of isolation and loneliness, as well as supported their mental/physical health.
Highlights
The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted people’s lives in profound ways
Given the onslaught of changes and uncertainty resulting from Covid-19, we were concerned how quarantine orders limited access to resources and fears about one’s own health and what may happen in the future would impact participants
A recent study that assessed the role between companion animals and their humans during Covid-19, found that companion animal ownership was related to better mental health scores [41]
Summary
The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted people’s lives in profound ways. Many individuals have been affected by financial/work losses, yet perhaps even more have been challenged by social distancing mandates and the resultant social isolation. For many people during this time, mobile phones and online platforms replaced in-person contact as a primary source of social connection and support [1,2,3] The importance of this isolation cannot be overstated; social connectedness and support are critical protective factors for human survival and well-being [4]. Social isolation can lead to loneliness, boredom, and in prolonged cases, can become a risk factor for physical [5,6] and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression [3,7] It is for these reasons that the psychosocial impacts of a pandemic, as experienced during Covid-19, may be more far-reaching than the virus itself
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
