Puppy Therapy and Mental Health

Watching puppies play—or better yet, spending time interacting with them—offers remarkably soothing mental health benefits. A 2025 study from the University of British Columbia Okanagan found that even a virtual session—just watching therapy dogs in action—can significantly reduce stress across all age groups. The human–animal bond during these interactions stimulates the release of mood-boosting hormones like oxytocin and serotonin, while lowering cortisol—the stress hormone—and even physical markers like blood pressure (Integrative Medicine Research Journal).

Additionally, students who regularly engaged with therapy dogs over several months reported notably lower anxiety and better overall well-being. This shows that whether in person or on screen, puppy therapy provides a simple but powerful way to ease stress, lift mood, and support mental health.

I hope you enjoy watching puppies.  If you want specific videos, I'm open to any ideas. :)

with pawsitive thoughts, Laci