One of my Favorite Coworkers Doesn’t Answer Emails (Fur Real)

By Hayley Sherwood, Columnist

I spend my days helping people manage anxiety, depression, grief, stress and many other challenges that come with being human. But I have to admit something: one of my favorite coworkers has four legs, a wagging tail and a fondness for claiming an entire couch as her own.

Her name is Lila. She is my 10-year-old pit bull and the most empathetic pup I have ever met. Lila regularly joins me at the office, and while she does not have a psychology license (I've checked), she has an uncanny ability to know when someone needs a little extra comfort. Clients often smile as soon as they see her. Some pet her while talking through difficult memories. Some laugh when she gives them the side eye or express concern when she appears to be chasing a squirrel in her sleep. Others simply seem to breathe a little easier knowing she is nearby.

Watching these interactions makes me curious. Is this just anecdotal, or does psychological research support what many pet owners already believe? As it turns out, science has quite a bit to say.

The American Psychiatric Association's 2024 Healthy Minds Poll found that 84% of pet owners believe their pets have a positive impact on their mental health. The most common reasons were companionship, unconditional love, a calming presence, reduced stress, increased physical activity and greater social interaction. These findings mirror what many therapists hear every day.

Researchers have also found that spending time with dogs, even for brief periods, can reduce psychological distress. A recent study published in the journal Emotion found that spending time with one's own dog was associated with improved emotional well-being, particularly during stressful periods.

So how do pets help us feel better?

One reason is that they excel at something humans sometimes struggle with: being fully present. Dogs are not worried about tomorrow's meeting or replaying an awkward conversation from five years ago. They simply enjoy being with us. Petting or walking a dog naturally encourages mindfulness, the ability to focus on the present moment, a skill therapists often teach to help reduce anxiety.

Pets also provide something psychologists call "unconditional positive regard." They show up whether you've had a bad hair day, forgotten your grocery list or embarrassed yourself in front of your coworkers. They are simply happy to see you. That consistent acceptance can be surprisingly powerful, especially during times of stress or loneliness.

Dogs, in particular, improve our lives in ways we may not even notice. They get us outdoors. They encourage regular routines. They introduce us to neighbors we might not otherwise meet. Those daily walks become small doses of exercise, sunlight and social interaction, all well-established contributors to well-being.

Pets are wonderful, but they are not magical antidepressants. They require time, money, patience, training and veterinary care. At times, they can create stress as well as relieve it. Research suggests the relationship matters more than simply owning an animal. A loving bond with a pet appears to provide the greatest emotional benefits.

Lila reminds me that comfort does not always come from words. Sometimes it comes from sitting quietly beside someone, offering warmth, acceptance and the occasional request for a belly rub.

That's not a bad lesson for the rest of us, either.

Keep cool and psych’d to see you next month!

-Dr. S.

Do you have a question for me? Are there topics you are hoping I will write about? Please submit your suggestions to www.oakhillpsychological.com/

Dr. Hayley B. Sherwood is a longtime Clinical Psychologist in Reston/Herndon. To learn more, please visit her website at www.oakhillpsychological.com/. Please visit the About Us section on our website to learn more about our team of therapists.