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25 Benefits of Spending Time with Pets: A House Sitting Perspective

The bond between humans and animals is truly special. Spending time with pets offers playful antics and unconditional love while providing a multitude of benefits that can transform our lives.

I had lost my dog, Sunshine, a Golden Retriever-Dalmatian cross, a few years ago. With work commitments and frequent travel, I never replaced her. The children had reached a stage where university, part-time jobs, and their insanely busy social lives made me rethink the responsibility of having a pet.

Fast forward to when I started house sitting, I rediscovered the emotional benefits of pet care. Little did I realise how much I had missed the interaction—both physical and mental. I’m an avid follower of The Huberman Lab Podcast, which focuses on health and wellbeing, especially how our brains interact with sensations—both good and bad. So, I’ve sprinkled these 28 benefits with scientific research where I can, as I believe it helps explain the WHY behind these benefits.

Spending time with animals can transform our lives in ways that are both profound and measurable. From improving mental and physical health to fostering social connections, pets bring invaluable benefits to those in their presence.

My first house sit was looking after two extremely large Russian Blue cats – who were super friendly. It was in the UK and the sit happened over Guy Fawkes night – a night typically celebrated with fireworks and firecrackers. The night all three of us huddled together in bed, as two very scared cats sought protection beside me, will forever stay in my mind. After that, Mexy and Tom followed me everywhere, offering constant companionship and cuddles.

So I will delve deeper into the many advantages of being with pets, add a few scientific studies, along with real-life anecdotes, and throw in some practical tips for good measure.

If you’re considering house sitting, understanding the benefits of spending time with pets might just inspire your next step.

a man with a golden doodle on a beach on scotland clearly enjoys spending time with pets
Nigel with Samba

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Emotional and Psychological Benefits

1. Reduces Stress

The simple act of interacting with pets can work wonders for stress reduction. When we pet a dog or cuddle a cat, our brains release oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” This hormone fosters feelings of connection and relaxation.

At the same time, cortisol levels—the hormone responsible for stress—are lowered. Research from the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has demonstrated that people who spent just 10 minutes petting dogs can significantly decrease feelings of anxiety. For house sitters, spending time with pets can make the transition into new environments smoother and less stressful.

Scientific Insight: Oxytocin is also associated with social bonding and trust. Oxytocin is closely linked to social bonding and trust. Its release during pet interaction may explain why so many people view their pets as cherished family members.

person iconTip for House Sitters: If you’re caring for an anxious pet, spending focused time stroking their fur or engaging in calming activities can benefit both of you. Pets often mirror the emotional energy of their caregivers, creating a mutual relaxation loop.

2. Boosts Mood

Pets have an uncanny ability to elevate our mood, making even the dullest days feel brighter. Engaging with them stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine—neurotransmitters directly linked to happiness and pleasure. Serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite, while dopamine is associated with motivation and reward. Together, these chemicals create a powerful boost to our emotional well-being.

Research supports these claims. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that pet owners experienced lower levels of depression and reported greater emotional stability during stressful periods. Simple activities like playing fetch, watching a fish swim, or listening to a bird chirp can trigger these positive effects, making pets a natural mood enhancer.

For house sitters, pets can be particularly impactful. Their companionship provides comfort and familiarity, helping to ease feelings of loneliness or homesickness while on assignment. So, the playful antics of a dog or the soothing purr of a cat can transform a new environment into a welcoming and joyful space.

Scientific Insight: The release of serotonin and dopamine during pet interaction creates a positive feedback loop that not only improves mood but also fosters emotional resilience over time.

person iconTip for House Sitters: Start your day by engaging with the pets in your care. A few minutes of petting, or even a simple walk can set a positive tone for the day ahead. Pets thrive on routine, and these small moments of connection benefit both you and them.


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3. Provides Companionship

In today’s world, loneliness is a growing concern, especially for those living alone. Pets step into this emotional gap effortlessly, offering unwavering companionship and unconditional love.

Unlike human relationships, which can sometimes be complex or demanding, the bond with a pet is refreshingly straightforward. For single people of all ages, this companionship can be profoundly uplifting, turning an empty home into a place filled with warmth and life. Pets offer a sense of routine and consistency, helping to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Scientific Insight: Studies show that spending time with pets activates the brain’s reward system, creating feelings of comfort and emotional safety. This is part of why the bond with a pet can feel as meaningful and stabilising as connections with close friends or family members.

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4. Encourages Mindfulness

Pets live entirely in the present moment, and their behavior encourages us to do the same. Observing a dog’s pure joy during a walk or a cat’s focused grooming routine, are a gentle nudge for us to slow down and appreciate the here and now. Unlike humans, who often dwell on the past or worry about the future, animals embody the simplicity of living fully in the moment.

Spending time with pets offers an opportunity to disconnect from daily distractions and tune into life’s smaller, quieter details. Stroking a dog’s fur, watching a cat bask in a sunbeam, or even sitting near a bird as it sings can foster a sense of peace and presence. This mindfulness not only reduces stress but also improves focus and overall mental clarity.

Scientific Insight: Studies on mindfulness suggest that being present in the moment can lower cortisol levels, improve concentration, and enhance emotional regulation. Pets naturally draw us into this state by their very nature, making them incredible companions for practicing mindfulness.

person iconTip for House Sitters: Use your time with the pets you’re caring for to practice being present. Observe their behaviors, engage fully during playtime, or take a moment to appreciate their calmness. These interactions can help you recharge and bring balance to your day.

5. Increases Emotional Resilience

Life is full of ups and downs, and pets often become the emotional anchors we need to navigate challenging times. Their unconditional love provides stability, acting as a buffer against feelings of rejection, sadness, or loss. During moments of grief or uncertainty, a pet’s comforting presence can be surprisingly grounding, helping you process your emotions and find solace when you need it most.

Caring for a pet also brings a sense of normalcy. The daily routine—feeding, walking, or even just sharing a quiet moment—creates structure when life feels chaotic. This steady rhythm can be a lifeline, gently pulling you through the harder days and building your emotional resilience along the way.

Scientific Insight: Research highlights how spending time with pets can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and allows the increase of serotonin, which supports emotional balance and recovery from tough times.

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6. Enhances Empathy

Caring for animals teaches us to pay closer attention to the world around us. Recognising when a dog is anxious, a bird is agitated, or even when a cat needs a little space requires careful observation and a willingness to understand non-verbal cues. This kind of attunement strengthens our ability to connect with others—whether they’re human or animal.

These lessons naturally translate into everyday life, helping anyone who cares for animals—whether pet owners or house sitters—become more empathetic and compassionate. Understanding a pet’s needs fosters patience, attentiveness, and a deeper awareness of how actions affect others. It’s no surprise that children who grow up with pets often develop stronger social skills and a heightened sensitivity to others’ emotions.

Scientific Insight: Studies in behavioural psychology show that interacting with animals improves emotional intelligence and our ability to interpret non-verbal communication. These skills are invaluable for building stronger human connections.

person iconLife Lessons from Pets: Watching how a dog instinctively seeks reassurance from its human during uncertain moments highlights the importance of connection. Pets show us that reaching out for comfort and support during tough times is not a sign of weakness but a vital step toward resilience.

7. Reduces Symptoms of PTSD

For individuals with PTSD, pets offer more than companionship—they provide a grounding effect that can significantly reduce symptoms like anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional dysregulation. Simply being around a pet can create a sense of safety and stability, allowing individuals to feel more in control of their environment and emotions.

Service animals take this to the next level. For example, emotional support dogs are specifically trained to perform tasks such as interrupting panic attacks, providing physical comfort during flashbacks, and waking their owners from nightmares. These trained responses not only alleviate immediate symptoms but also help individuals build trust and regain confidence in daily life.

person iconLife Lessons from Pets: Animals show us the power of presence. A dog resting its head on your lap during a moment of distress is a reminder that often, the best support doesn’t come from words but from simply being there for someone.


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8. Improves Focus

Pets thrive on routine, and their care requirements naturally add structure to our lives. Feeding times, grooming sessions, and regular walks create consistent patterns that ground our days. For individuals with ADHD or high-stress lifestyles, this structured interaction helps channel energy and attention into meaningful, productive activities.

Caring for pets also requires staying mindful of their needs, whether it’s ensuring they’re fed at the right time or noticing subtle signs of discomfort. This focus on their well-being trains house sitters to stay attentive and organised, which carries over into other areas of life.

Scientific Insight: Research from the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine shows that routines reduce cognitive load, freeing up mental energy to focus on other tasks. By following a structured schedule, such as feeding and walking a pet, you create a predictable rhythm that improves focus, reduces decision fatigue, and enhances emotional regulation.

person iconTips for House Sitters: Use a checklist to keep track of pet care routines—meal times, exercise schedules, and grooming needs. Staying consistent with these tasks not only ensures the pet’s happiness but also helps you maintain your own sense of organisation and focus during the sit.

9. Eases Grief

Caring for pets during a house sit can provide profound comfort for those processing grief. The companionship and unconditional love that pets offer create a sense of normalcy and stability during emotionally turbulent times.

For house sitters, the act of caring for a pet—whether it’s walking a dog, feeding a cat, or simply sitting quietly together—offers moments of solace and an opportunity to focus outward, helping to ease the heaviness of loss.

Scientific Insight:
A study published in Anthrozoös found that interacting with animals can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and sadness, particularly for individuals grieving a loss. The routine and comfort pets provide help create emotional stability and healing.


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If you know someone who’d benefit from this guide, spread the word! Let’s help more homeowners and house sitters have amazing experiences.


Physical Health Benefits

10. Encourages Regular Exercise

Owning or caring for a pet, especially a dog, is like having a fitness partner that never skips a session. Daily walks, games of fetch, and playtime naturally increase your activity levels and make it easier to stay active.

Studies show that dog owners are far more likely to meet or exceed recommended daily exercise levels, leading to improved cardiovascular health, better weight management, and increased muscle tone.

This regular activity improves cardiovascular health, helps manage weight, and strengthens muscles. Exercise with pets doesn’t just benefit the body—it also boosts mental health by releasing endorphins, improving mood, and reducing stress. It’s a win-win for both you and the pet.

Scientific Insight: A study published in BMC Public Health found that dog owners walk an average of 22 minutes more per day than non-owners, helping them meet and exceed daily activity guidelines. This regular physical activity contributes to improved heart health and reduced risks of obesity-related illnesses.

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Nigel with Noodle

11. Promotes Cardiovascular Health

Spending time with pets doesn’t just warm your heart—it strengthens it too. Regular physical activity, such as daily walks with a dog or a quick game of fetch, naturally lowers blood pressure, improves circulation, and strengthens your cardiovascular system.

Studies show that dog owners are more likely to meet daily exercise goals, which directly supports heart health. Regular physical activity, like daily walks with dogs, contribute to better circulation and overall cardiovascular health. Pets truly offer a unique blend of companionship and life-changing health benefits.

Scientific Insight: Research published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes revealed that dog owners had a 33% lower risk of death following a heart attack compared to non-owners. The combination of physical activity, reduced stress, and emotional support provided by pets contributes to this remarkable finding.

person iconTips for House Sitters: Make the most of daily dog walks to benefit your heart health. A brisk 20-minute walk can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and keep you feeling your best. It’s the perfect way for both you and the pet to stay active and healthy.

12. Boosts Immune System

Interacting with pets during house sits can benefit your immune system in unexpected ways. Animals bring in microbes from the outdoors, exposing you to a variety of bacteria that help strengthen your body’s defences.

For house sitters moving between environments, this natural exposure can support your immune system’s ability to adapt to new surroundings. Even brief periods with pets can promote resilience, helping you stay healthier while enjoying the unique experiences that house sitting offers.

However, it’s important to remember that frequent travel can take a toll on your body, and maintaining good health as a house sitter is essential.

Read Next – Your Go-To Health Tips for Successful House Sitting!

Scientific Insight: Research from The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology shows that early and repeated exposure to pets increases microbial diversity in the body, enhancing the immune system. While most studies focus on children, adults benefit too, particularly those new to regular pet interactions.

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13. Improves Sleep Quality

While pets may not always directly improve your sleep, their presence can contribute to a sense of security and comfort that promotes better rest overall. Many house sits involve routines that include preparing pets for the night, such as guiding them to their sleeping areas or securing night cages.

These structured routines encourage a more consistent bedtime for house sitters as well. For light sleepers or those adjusting to new environments, the predictability of a pet’s routine can foster a calming bedtime atmosphere.

At times, I’ve house sat alone and found it comforting to have a dog sleep on my bed. In some households, this is perfectly normal. However, if you’re a house sitter who prefers not to share the bedroom, it’s completely fine to keep the pet outside the room at night.

Scientific Insight: A study from The Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that while pets in the bedroom may disrupt some people’s sleep, they also provide a sense of companionship and reassurance, which helps others sleep better. Creating consistent bedtime routines with pets can support relaxation and sleep hygiene.

person iconLife Lessons from Pets: Pets remind us of the importance of winding down. Their consistent nighttime habits, whether it’s finding their favourite sleeping spot or settling into a night cage, encourage us to create our own bedtime routines. These simple rituals help promote relaxation and a more restful night’s sleep.

14. Lowers Risk of Heart Disease

The combined benefits of physical activity, reduced stress, and emotional support provided by pets contribute significantly to better heart health. Pet owners are statistically less likely to suffer from heart disease and enjoy lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The regular activity associated with caring for pets, such as walking or playing, enhances cardiovascular function. Additionally, the calming presence of a pet helps regulate the body’s stress response, further reducing the risk of heart-related illnesses.

Scientific Insight: A study in Circulation by the American Heart Association highlights that interactions with pets, such as walking or petting them, can significantly lower stress-induced cardiovascular strain. Over time, these benefits reduce the risk of heart-related illnesses.

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Social Benefits

15. Builds Community Connections

Pets are natural conversation starters and help bridge the gap between strangers. Walking a dog or visiting a pet-friendly cafe often sparks interactions with other pet owners or animal lovers. Dog parks, community events, and pet-centered activities create shared experiences that bring people together.

For individuals who struggle with social anxiety, pets provide a comfortable topic of conversation and a reason to connect with others. These interactions not only build friendships but also foster a sense of belonging within a community.

I’ve had the most amazing conversations in local parks and even made lifelong friends with fellow dog walkers. Although I work from home, taking time out during the day to walk a dog connects me with friendly locals who are always eager to share their insider tips and local insights.

person iconTips for House Sitters: Use your time walking pets to explore local parks or neighbourhoods. It’s a great way to meet people and feel part of the community, even during short stays.

16. Enhances Social Skills

Caring for pets during house sits teaches valuable interpersonal skills that transfer seamlessly to human relationships. Pets rely on clear communication, patience, and attentiveness—all essential for building trust and connection.

For house sitters, adapting to the unique needs of each pet sharpens the ability to observe, respond thoughtfully, and build rapport. These experiences not only deepen the bond with animals but also encourage more empathetic and effective communication with people.

Whether it’s recognising subtle cues from a shy cat or responding to a dog’s need for reassurance, house sitters develop transferable skills that enrich interactions both on and off assignment.

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17. Fosters Intergenerational Bonding


Many people house sit as a family and this offers a unique opportunity for intergenerational bonding. Caring for pets during a sit teaches children responsibility, patience, and empathy while giving parents a chance to model teamwork and collaboration.

Whether it’s walking the dog, managing feeding schedules, or simply spending time together with the pets, the shared experience creates lasting memories and strengthens family connections. For multigenerational families who house sit together, the combined care for pets bridges age gaps and encourages meaningful interactions between parents and children.

Scientific Insight: Research from Frontiers in Psychology highlights how shared activities, like pet care, promote stronger family bonds and enhance emotional closeness across generations. Caring for animals fosters teamwork and provides a common goal that unites family members.

person iconTips for House Sitters: If you’re house sitting with children, involve everyone in pet care tasks. It’s a great way to encourage collaboration and teach valuable life skills.


A joyful family, consisting of a man, woman, and boy, is playing with a small white puppy on a grass lawn. Theyre smiling and crouched down in front of their modern home. This idyllic scene is the perfect introduction to house sitting in style.

Cognitive and Developmental Benefits

18. Encourages Responsibility

House sitting with pets offers a unique opportunity to develop and strengthen responsibility. Managing feeding schedules, grooming routines, and even specialised care like administering medication requires careful organisation and accountability.

For house sitters, these experiences help build time management skills and reinforce the importance of dependability. Each task, no matter how small, cultivates a sense of purpose and demonstrates how consistency in caregiving creates trust and stability for the pets in their care

Scientific Insight: Studies in Developmental Psychology highlight how managing pet care improves organisational skills and accountability, particularly for young people. For adults, these structured routines further refine time management and task prioritisation.

person iconLife Lessons from Pets: Pets teach us the importance of showing up. Their reliance on us fosters a sense of purpose and reminds us that consistency is key to building trust.

19. Improves Cognitive Development in Children

House sitting with a young family provides a unique opportunity for children to engage in hands-on learning with pets. Activities like helping to walk a dog, observing a pet’s behaviour, or assisting with feeding routines foster problem-solving skills, curiosity, and creativity.

These experiences not only encourage children to explore the natural world but also teach them responsibility and attention to detail. For house sitters travelling as a family, involving kids in pet care can create meaningful interactions that spark curiosity and promote lifelong learning.

Scientific Insight: A study in Pediatric Research found that children with pets exhibit enhanced executive functioning skills, such as planning and decision-making. Engaging with animals activates cognitive processes in ways that traditional learning environments may overlook, making pet care an invaluable teaching tool.

person iconTips for House Sitters: When house sitting as a family, involve children in simple pet care tasks like feeding or playtime. This not only keeps the kids engaged but also turns everyday routines into valuable learning experiences.


20. Teaches Patience

Caring for pets during house sits often requires a great deal of patience. Whether it’s earning the trust of a shy cat or gradually helping a nervous rescue dog feel comfortable, building relationships with animals takes time and understanding.

These experiences remind us that progress is gradual but incredibly rewarding. For house sitters, the lessons in patience gained from caring for pets translate into other areas of life, improving the ability to handle challenges, build trust, and approach new situations with calm persistence.

Scientific Insight:
Research in Behavioural Processes shows that positive reinforcement training with pets improves patience and adaptability in humans. The iterative process of teaching and learning with animals builds emotional resilience.

Miscellaneous Benefits

21. Adds Joy and Humour to Life

House sitting with pets turns even the simplest days into opportunities for laughter. A dog chasing its tail in delight or a cat pouncing on a toy can bring moments of pure joy, breaking up the monotony of daily routines.

For house sitters, these playful moments are more than entertaining—they’re uplifting and stress-relieving. The pets’ silly antics help create a positive and light-hearted atmosphere, reminding us not to take life too seriously. Caring for pets while house sitting turns responsibilities into cherished memories filled with humour and fun.

Scientific Insight: Research in Emotion journal shows that laughter triggered by pets increases serotonin levels, enhancing mood and reducing feelings of anxiety or sadness. This biochemical response explains why pets are often referred to as “nature’s comedians.”

person iconLife Lessons from Pets: Pets teach us not to take life too seriously. Their ability to find joy in the simplest things reminds us to embrace fun and laughter daily.

22. Improves Time in Nature

House sitting with pets more often than not, comes with the perk of exploring the outdoors. Whether it’s a dog walk through a scenic park or simply soaking in the fresh air during playtime in a garden, these moments connect you with nature.

For house sitters, this can be a welcome escape from indoor routines. Spending time with pets and exploring local trails or beaches with a pet not only enhances your appreciation of the environment but also improves mental clarity and reduces stress, making your time in nature both meaningful and restorative.

Scientific Insight: A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that spending just 20 minutes in nature significantly reduces cortisol levels. When paired with the companionship of a pet, the calming effects are even greater, providing a powerful mental and physical reset.

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23. Reduces Screen Time

Whether you want to call yourself a Social Media Enthusiast or a Digital Junkie, scrolling through platforms such as Instagram, Facebook or Tik Tok, is an addiction. It can also be extremely problematic if you’re house sitting alone. Caring for pets naturally shifts your focus away from screens and toward more meaningful activities.

Feeding, walking, grooming, and simply spending quality time with pets provide essential breaks from digital distractions. For house sitters, these moments are particularly valuable, as they allow you to fully engage with the pets and the environment. Replacing screen time with pet care creates a healthier balance and a sense of purpose, helping you stay grounded and present.

Scientific Insight: Research from BMC Public Health reveals that excessive screen time is linked to higher stress and poorer sleep quality. Engaging in non-digital activities, like caring for pets, reduces these negative effects by encouraging movement and mindfulness.

person iconLife Lessons from Pets: Pets remind us to be present. Their need for attention and care pulls us away from distractions and helps us focus on the things that truly matter.

24. Inspires Routine

Spending time with pets who thrive on consistency naturally establishes a daily routine. From morning feeding times to evening walks, these regular activities create a structured day, which can be especially beneficial for house sitters adjusting to new environments.

A predictable routine reduces stress and boosts productivity, making it easier to stay focused and organised. This structure not only benefits the pets but also creates a sense of purpose and stability for the house sitter.

Scientific Insight: Research in Psychological Bulletin highlights that structured routines reduce stress and enhance cognitive function. Establishing regular activities, such as feeding and walking pets, helps house sitters maintain focus and a sense of control. This predictability creates mental clarity and reduces the decision fatigue often associated with constantly adapting to new environments.

person iconTips for House Sitters: Use the pet’s routine as an anchor for your day. Whether it’s morning feeding times or evening walks, following their schedule can help you adapt to new surroundings while keeping both you and the pet happy and stress-free. This structure adds balance and predictability to your time on the sit.

25. Expands Perspective

Spending time with pets offers a fresh perspective on life. Observing their behaviours—like a dog’s excitement over a new scent or a cat’s meticulous grooming—teaches us to appreciate the small, often overlooked details of our world.

For house sitters, each assignment brings a new environment, a different routine, and unique personalities in the pets you care for. These experiences broaden your understanding of both animals and yourself, encouraging curiosity, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for life’s simplicities.

Scientific Insight:
A study in Animal Behaviour suggests that observing animals’ interactions with their environment enhances human awareness and fosters a deeper connection with nature. This mindful observation helps people develop a greater appreciation for their surroundings.

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The Transformative Power of Spending Time with Pets

Spending time with pets is more than just a daily interaction—it’s a gateway to improved emotional well-being, physical health, and meaningful connections. Whether you’re house sitting, caring for your own pet, or simply enjoying their company, the benefits are profound and far-reaching. From reducing stress and encouraging mindfulness to boosting your immune system and enhancing social skills, pets truly enrich our lives in ways both big and small.

For house sitters, the opportunity to connect with pets offers not only companionship but also a unique way to experience personal growth and create lasting memories. Every tail wag, purr, and playful moment reminds us of the joy and fulfilment pets bring, leaving us better for the time spent in their company.

Ready to experience the magic of spending time with pets? Start your house-sitting journey today and see how these incredible animals can transform your life.