The pet factor--companion animals as a conduit for getting to know people, friendship formation and social support.

ABSTRACT:

Background

While companion animals have been previously identified as a direct source of companionship and support to their owners, their role as a catalyst for friendship formation or social support networks among humans has received little attention. This study investigated the indirect role of pets as facilitators for three dimensions of social relatedness; getting to know people, friendship formation and social support networks.

Methods

A telephone survey of randomly selected residents in four cities, one in Australia (Perth; n = 704) and three in the U.S. (San Diego, n = 690; Portland, n = 634; Nashville, n = 664) was conducted. All participants were asked about getting to know people within their neighborhood. Pet owners were asked additional questions about the type/s

SUBMITTER: Wood L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4414420 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature