Children’s Comfort From Pets During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Roles of Attachment and Children’s Treatment of Pets
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study focused on the role of pets on children during COVID-19, specifically investigating the perceived comfort received by children from pets during this stressful time. Previous literature suggests that pets may provide support, comfort, and relief in times of need. The current study, therefore, investigated the link between children’s pet attachment and perceptions of comfort received by children from their pets during the COVID-19 pandemic and tested whether children’s treatment of animals moderated this link. The data were collected using an online questionnaire; 685 parents provided information about their children and pets. The Pet Attachment Scale (PAS)-Parent Report, Children’s Treatment of Animals Questionnaire (CTAQ), and a novel measure, Children’s Comfort from Pets during COVID-19, were employed. Children’s pet attachment significantly predicted perceived comfort received from pets during COVID-19. This was partially moderated by children’s treatment of animals, with a stronger link between children’s pet attachment and comfort from COVID-19 for children who engaged in fewer positive behaviors with their pets. The results also highlight gender and age patterns in attachment to pets and behavior toward pets.
Source: Anthrozoös
Authors: Unaiza Iqbal, Joanne M. Williams, Monja Knoll
Institution: University of Edinburgh
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4408837893