Pets Help People Find Mates, According to New Study

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According to a new survey by Nestle Purina, more than 50 percent of people say that they have found pets to be beneficial in helping strike up a conversation with someone they are interested in.

The survey was conducted among 1,200 general population respondents in the U.S., with an additional 200 in New York and 200 in California, to explore how pets impact and enhance romantic relationships.

88 percent of those surveyed also believe dogs are great to help meet people. 63 percent of people said that they are likely to date someone who has a pet.

Nearly six out of ten surveyed say that they are likely to consider a person with a dog more attractive, and one in three people would want to meet up with or talk to someone that has their pet in their dating website photo.

“Not only do pets serve as a great conversation starter, but studies have also shown that pets can help release ‘feel good’ hormones in humans, including high levels of oxytocin, also known in some circles as the ‘love hormone’,” said Dr. Zara Boland, Purina veterinarian. “Whether it’s making friendly conversation or taking the first step in finding long-lasting love, pets create wonderful opportunities for people to connect on a vast spectrum of different levels.”