Food Security Challenges and Health Opportunities of Companion Animal Ownership for Low-Income Adults.

Purpose: Do pets provide benefits or risks for low-income individuals in regards to food security?

Method: Surveys of food security were administered to 392 low-income adults utilizing food pantries. Data collection included a self-administered questionnaire about demographics, food security, health and well-being, and for those with pets, animal attachment, commitment and animal information. Qualitative interviews were conducted with fifteen pet-owning individuals who completed the questionnaire and agreed to be contacted and interviewed over the phone about food security and their pets.