Prior to this research, it was proposed that animals have a beneficial effect on mental health and they can improve the quality of humans´ life regarding serious diseases, the Human Animal Interaction Bulletin journal reported.

Experts confirmed the changes in hormone levels, both an increased oxytocin level and a reduced cortisol hormone. It also lessened the feeling of loneliness, levels of depression and anxiety, and specialists said that the increased oxytocin level is closely related to an improved mood.

Researchers cleared up that emotional support animals differ from those specifically trained to provide a specific service, as in the case of dogs used as guides for blind or visually-impaired people.

mh/pll/oda / joe