Paws & Peace: How Pets Are Rewriting India’s Mental Wellness Playbook

Updated: November 05, 2025 02:33

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A new survey by Mars Petcare India and Calm reveals that pets are quietly transforming mental wellness in India. With 79% of pet owners reporting improved emotional health, the findings highlight the need for a work-life reset. Pets help reduce stress, digital fatigue, and loneliness—especially in fast-paced urban settings.

From Fur to Feel-Good: India’s Pet Companions Lead a Mental Health Revolution

In a world increasingly dominated by screens, stress, and solitude, a recent survey has uncovered a powerful antidote: pets. Conducted by Mars Petcare India in partnership with Calm, the world’s largest study on pet-related mental wellness reveals that Indian pet owners are experiencing significant emotional benefits, prompting calls for a work-life balance reset.

Key Highlights from the Survey:

Mental Health Boost

A staggering 79% of Indian pet owners say their pets positively impact their mental wellbeing.

Pets offer unconditional companionship, helping people navigate anxiety, burnout, and emotional fatigue.

Stress and Screen Detox

Pets encourage owners to step away from screens, engage in physical activity, and practice mindfulness.

Their presence helps reduce digital fatigue, a growing concern in India’s tech-driven urban workforce.

Social Connection and Routine

Pet ownership fosters social interaction, whether through walks, vet visits, or online communities.

Pets also instill daily structure, which is crucial for emotional regulation and productivity.

Preferred Companions in Crisis

During stressful times, 57% of respondents preferred spending time with their pets over friends or family.

This underscores the deep emotional bond between humans and animals.

Work-Life Reset Urged

Experts suggest integrating pet-friendly policies at workplaces, such as flexible hours, remote work options, and pet-inclusive environments.

These changes could enhance employee morale and reduce mental health-related absenteeism.

Global Context, Local Impact

The survey covered 30,000+ pet parents across 20 countries, with India showing one of the strongest correlations between pet ownership and mental wellness.

This research reframes pets not just as companions, but as co-therapists in a fast-paced world, offering emotional grounding and joy. As India’s mental health conversation evolves, it’s clear that fur babies are part of the solution.

Sources: Hindustan Times, EBNW, The Week

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