Effects on empathy
Empathy in humans helps to relax the mind and strengthen the
heart (Dictionary.com).
Being able to understand and share the feelings of another can contribute to
the overall levels of happiness one has. Heregovich found a “positive effect of
the presence of dogs in the classroom on the development of empathy in
children” (Beetz et al.). When compared to a control class, “the class with the
dogs showed higher scores in field independence and empathy toward animals.
Field independence was interpreted as an indicator of better empathy, since it
assesses one’s ability to distinguish between self and non-self, which is a necessary
prerequisite for sensitivity toward the moods and needs of others” (Beetz et
al.). Animals have been proven to promote levels of empathy towards others. If
animals are treated well or one is empathetic to them, they are more likely to
treat the human companion the same way. Pets contain a “be here now,” quality
which is intriguing for owners and triggers them to create bonds with the
animals (Porter 29). Recent studies have shown that, “animals are capable of
many emotions including joy, shame, and grief” (Porter 29). A pet experiences
emotions as do humans, so their mood may change that of the companion. In order
to keep a happy relationship, one must show empathy towards their pet.
Understanding and sharing the feelings of one another is important in a
human-animal relationship. Most
importantly pets have been discovered to boost a more social, positive mood.