Look closely and you may find physical similarities between pets and their owners. An even closer look reveals that the similarities aren’t just skin deep.
Various studies show links between the health issues of pets and their human parents. A Swedish study found that owners of diabetic dogs were 38% more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes themselves. Other research suggests a correlation between owners’ exposure to certain pesticides and an increased risk of lymphoma in their dogs.
Dogs and cats sneezing and wheezing along side you? It may very well be due to shared environmental factors (exposure to certain allergies) and/or genetic predispositions to conditions such as asthma. Down-in-the-dumps or high-strung pet owners may discover their pet acting depressed or anxious over time. The reverse is also possible. On the flip side, the act of caring for a pet and a cared-for pet may lift mutual doldrums.
The moods of humans and animals profoundly impact one another. One study at the University of University of Jyväskylä, in Finland, observed 25 dogs and their owners. Researchers found that heart rate variability (the slight fluctuation between heart beats) of a dog and its owner often reflect each other during interactions. Greater variability tends to increase during relaxation and is linked to better heart health.
Several factors influence pet and owner health. Pets and owners sharing the same environment and exposed to the same substances may be more prone to acquire the same maladies. Shared lifestyle choices and genetic similarities may also result in similar health issues afflicting pets and their owners. For example, pets of sedentary humans often don’t get adequate exercise to maintain healthy weight and muscle mass. Junk food consumers may be less likely to scrutinize the nutritional value of their pets’ food, or feed them inappropriate foods such as table scraps.
While a broad body of research supports a correlation between pet ownership and shared medical conditions, it doesn’t necessarily imply causation. Other factors such as socioeconomic status and accessibility to health and veterinary care may influence shared health conditions between pets and their humans.
We have little control over genetic predisposition to illness, but we do control our choices. Creating the best possible environment within our means may increase the odds of a longer life of shared health and happiness with our pets.