A recent video of astronaut Christina Koch moved people by showing her reunion with her dog after a long mission. More than a sensitive moment, the scene reignited an important discussion: the real impact that pets have on mental health, especially in intense, lonely or high-pressure routines.

Several studies reinforce that the coexistence between tutor and pet can help reduce levels of stress, anxiety and even symptoms of depression — but with an important caveat: the positive impact is directly linked to the quality of this relationship on a daily basis.

Positive impacts of animals on mental health

A global survey carried out in 2025, with more than 30 thousand tutors and commissioned by the companies Mars and Calm, revealed that 65% of people prefer to spend time with their pets to relieve stress, while 90% state that the simple presence of the animal is capable of generating a feeling of calm, highlighting the increasingly important role of these bonds in the emotional routine.

The data helps explain why animals have occupied an increasing space in this dynamic — however, this benefit does not just come from the presence of petbut the way this coexistence is built with interaction, consistency and connection on a daily basis.

For Beatriz França, specialist in animal behavior and founder of Creche Escola BFA in Brazil and PETland BFA in Miami, the link between tutor e pet It is one of the main factors that determine the positive impact of this coexistence.

“Animals have a unique ability to bring us to the present. They are not worried about what happened yesterday or what could happen tomorrow. When we can connect with them in a genuine way, it helps to reduce mental overload and create real moments of pause in the middle of the routine”, he explains.

Below, check out 5 tips listed by Beatriz França to strengthen the bond between tutor and pet in practice!

1. Create moments of real presence

Many people spend the entire day with their pet at home, but without quality interaction. Being in the same environment does not necessarily mean being present. Taking a few minutes to play, observe or simply interact consciously with the animal makes a huge difference in the bond and the way you feel.

2. Establish a routine that works for both of you

Predictability brings security for the animal and, at the same time, it helps the tutor to better organize their day. When the pet understands what to expect, whether it’s feeding time, walking time or rest time, he tends to be calmer and less anxious. This organization reduces unwanted behavior at home and reduces the owner’s feeling of overload, who now has a more balanced routine.

3. Use the walk as a mental break

Often, the trip becomes just another task on the list, done automatically and hurriedly. But it can also be a powerful moment of slowing down. Walk with pettaking your time, paying attention to the environment and the animal’s behavior, helps to slow down and disconnect from digital stimuli. This type of active presence turns the walk into a real break in the day, bringing emotional benefits to both the owner and the client. pet.

4. Invest in communication and understanding behavior

The more you understand your signs petbe they of joy, anxietyfear or discomfort, the easier it is to anticipate situations and avoid stress for both. This reduces day-to-day frustrations and strengthens the relationship of trust. An animal that feels understood tends to respond better to stimuli, becomes more emotionally balanced and contributes to a lighter environment at home.

5. Turn small rituals into moments of connection

It can be at feeding time, before bed or when you get home. Creating small interaction rituals helps to consistently reinforce the bond, because the animal starts to associate these moments with security, affection and predictability. For the tutor, these rituals also function as emotional breaks throughout the day, helping to reduce stress and strengthen the connection naturally.

Emotional regulators

More than company, the pets They can act as true emotional regulators in an increasingly accelerated daily life. However, as Beatriz França reinforces, the positive impact of this relationship depends on intentionality.

“It’s not just about having an animal at home, but about how you relate to it. When there is exchange, presence and connection, the benefits go far beyond affection; they appear in the way you deal with the animal.” stresswith anxiety and even with the challenges of everyday life”, he concludes.

By Maria Carolina Rossi