The Better Listener, Your Husband Or The Dog?

These survey results indicate that 33% of married women say their companion animals are better listeners than their husbands. Overall, one-quarter of those living with companion animal consider their companion animal to be a better listener than their spouse, while those living with dogs (25%) are more likely to consider their dog as a better listener than those living with cats (14%).

In other findings, 8% of those living with companion animal say they talk about their personal problems with their companion animals. Women (10%), single men (9%), and those earning under $50k per year (12%) are the most likely to talk with their companion animals about their problems. About 5% of men, 4% of married men, and 5% of those who earn more than $50k per year talk about their problems with their companion animals.

Previously, 5% of respondents said they have taken their companion animal to a companion animal psychologist and 4% have given their companion animal an anti-depressant when they thought their companion animal looked depressed. Almost 20% said they would be somewhat likely to take their companion animal to a vet or psychologist if she or he showed signs of depression. Women (23%) are more likely than men (13%) to say they would bring their companion animal animal to see a professional. More people under the age of 30 (30%) would be likely to do so compared with those over the age of 65 (12%).

Those living with dogs (23%) are more likely than those living with cats (11%) to consider visiting a vet or psychologist. The majority (85%) say their companion animals exhibit mood swings very infrequently.