Story & Photos by Kim Eisele, President, The Animal League of Green Valley
The Animal League of Green Valley (TALGV) is a 501(C)(3), no-kill cat and dog shelter. Our mission is to save homeless cats and dogs and match them with the right human. This match ideally results in the “human-animal bond”.
The human-animal bond refers to the profound and mutually beneficial relationship that develops between humans and animals. This connection has existed for thousands of years, shaping cultures, supporting survival, and fostering emotional well-being. Today, the bond is recognized not only for its emotional significance but also for its positive impacts on health, social development, and overall quality of life.
Historically, humans relied on animals for food, work, and companionship. Early domestication of dogs around 15,000 years ago marked the beginning of a special relationship, as dogs provided protection, hunting assistance, and emotional comfort. Over centuries, this bond evolved from practical needs to a more emotional and social connection, with animals becoming cherished family members in many societies.
Research consistently demonstrates that animals contribute significantly to human mental health. Interacting with pets can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The act of caring for an animal provides a sense of purpose and routine, fostering emotional stability. For many people, animals serve as non-judgmental companions, offering unconditional love and companionship that can alleviate feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
The human-animal bond extends into therapeutic domains. TALGV has a Pet Therapy Team. This team not only goes to assisted living facilities, but also goes to a school for a Read to a Dog program. The children read to the dog, where they feel less inhibited than reading to a person, albeit a person is also there. This program has proven to be very successful. The children look forward to the day when the dogs are going to visit.
Service animals, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired or assistance dogs for those with mobility challenges, provide vital support that enhances independence and safety. Modern science has proven what many pet owners have felt for a long time: the bond between humans and animals has tangible psychological and physiological benefits. Studies show that interacting with pets can reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and increasing oxytocin, the “love hormone.” Pets can also improve heart health, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.
From childhood to old age, animals play a significant role in human development and well-being. Children learn empathy, responsibility, and social skills through pet ownership. Seniors often find companionship and emotional comfort in animals, which can improve mood and even physical health by encouraging activity.
As the human-animal bond deepens, it’s essential to emphasize responsible pet ownership. This includes providing proper care, respecting animals’ needs, and understanding their natural behaviors. Ethical treatment ensures that the bond remains positive and beneficial for both humans and animals.
The human-animal bond is a testament to the enduring connection between species that enriches lives across cultures and generations. Recognizing and nurturing this relationship not only benefits individual well-being but also promotes compassion, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings. As research continues to unveil the profound impacts of this bond, it remains clear that our relationships with animals are integral to the human experience.
So, stop by TALGV and visit our canines and felines. With a choice of over 35 dogs and 150 cats, there’s a good chance one will capture your heart, and you will take him or her home and develop your own special bond. The simple act of stroking a cat or walking a dog can create moments of mindfulness and connection that anchor people in the present. Speaking from experience (I have 2 dogs and 3 cats), it is the most wondrous connection.
The Animal League Of Green Valley | A no kill animal shelter in southern Arizona
