Effect of human-animal interaction on the well-being and quality of life.

Background: COVID-19, the economic and the political crises happening in Lebanon, have enforced social distancing and isolation, causing severe psychological states. However, these psychological consequences have highlighted the aim behind the interactions between humans and animals. In this study, we aimed to investigate the interaction between humans and animals and to compare the well-being and quality of life of the Lebanese pet owners in Lebanon in the face of stressors currently experienced and animals' companionship.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional retrospective design was involved in this study. The study enrolling 314 participants via an online survey was conducted between March 2021 and May 2021. The questionnaire used was pre-tested and participants were given the choice of not participating. Participants were Lebanese and over the age of 18; they responded to questions regarding their interactions with animals and the impact of different stressors on their mental and physical state.

Results: The study's findings indicate that most participants perceived their animals as a valuable source of support, and there was a significant correlation between the strength of the bond with their companion animals (as measured by the Comfort from Companion Animal Scale (CCAS) (R=0.14, P=0.009)) and their well-being. Additionally, the study revealed that individuals who had a closer relationship with their pets engaged in more physical activity, socialized more through social media during the pandemic period, and maintained better relationships with their parents and other relatives. However, the results showed no significant correlation between individuals' quality of life and their interaction with animals (R=0.10, P=0.07).

Conclusion: The positive impact of human-animal interaction on human well-being has been observed in Lebanon under various stressors. This impact is closely related to the strength of the bond between humans and their animals. During the pandemic period, having a companion animal was found to promote human well-being by encouraging physical activity and social interaction. It is noteworthy that emotional and psychological health was not affected by the number of animals an individual owned. However, the recent COVID-19, political, and socio-economic crises in Lebanon have raised serious concerns regarding the psychological state of its citizens. Thus, further research is needed to address the issues highlighted in this study.