This is Kiko. His photograph is the starting point for a conversation about a relationship that has an important place in many people’s lives: the bond with companion animals.
If you live with an animal, you may recognise the comfort of coming home to that familiar presence. Or the difference a walk can make on a day when you feel like staying on the sofa and putting everything off.
An animal does not need to understand our problems for their company to matter. But it is worth considering how that relationship can support well-being and what place it can have in psychological care.
Small routines that give the day structure
Feeding an animal, getting ready for a walk, playing or making time for their care are practical tasks. For some people, they help maintain a routine and create opportunities for contact and activity, particularly during periods of greater isolation.
Imagine someone who works from home and spends the day between the computer and their worries. Walking the dog can be an opportunity to break that rhythm, notice their surroundings and exchange a few words with a neighbour. The problem that was worrying them is still unresolved, but the day has gained a pause and some contact with the outside world.
Research on this relationship includes accounts from people who find companionship, security and support for their routines in their animals. This does not mean that having an animal, on its own, improves everyone’s mental health. Experiences differ, and caring for an animal can also bring difficulties.
A source of support that can be acknowledged in therapy
In a psychology consultation, it makes sense to explore the relationships and activities that help a person feel supported. A companion animal can be part of that conversation: what they mean to the person, the moments they share and how their care fits into the person’s life.
For example, a walk can form part of a routine that someone is trying to rebuild. Or talking about their relationship with an animal can help them recognise needs for closeness and care.
Animal-assisted therapy, however, is a planned intervention, with goals and professionals trained for that work. The presence of a dog in a photograph or the company of an animal at home is not equivalent to that intervention.
Caring for the relationship in both directions
This bond involves time, expenses, healthcare and respect for the animal’s needs. Their rest and well-being matter too. Adoption should be a carefully considered decision, taking into account the ability to provide lifelong care.
Kiko helps us open this conversation about companionship. And if you are going through a difficult time, at Psicologias da Sofia we can help you understand your sources of support and what you need to look after yourself.
