# Swiss study on pet ownership and health > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/swiss-study-on-pet-ownership-and-health > Updated: 2026-08-15T08:30:24.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Researchers from several institutions, including the University of Basel, conducted a study involving over 2,300 Swiss residents to examine the relationship between pet ownership and well-being. The findings challenge the assumption that owning a pet automatically improves physical or psychological health. The study indicated no significant differences in loneliness, life satisfaction, or medical visits between pet owners and non-owners. Notably, pet owners reported slightly worse health states and higher average daily cigarette consumption. Researchers suggested a ‘selection effect’ might occur, where individuals already facing health issues or loneliness are more likely to adopt pets. While general health benefits were not found, the quality of the human-animal bond appeared significant; those who spent more time with their animals, particularly dog owners, reported higher levels of perceived emotional support. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-15: Swiss study challenges link between pet ownership and improved health A Swiss study of 2,300 residents suggests pet ownership does not automatically guarantee better physical or mental health, noting that benefits depend heavily on the quality of the human-animal bond. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/swiss-study-challenges-link-between-pet-ownership-and-improved-health ### 2026-07-29: Swiss Survey Finds No Health Benefits from Pet Ownership A Swiss survey of 2,328 adults found pet ownership does not improve health or wellbeing; women and dog owners feel stronger bonds, but owners reported slightly poorer health and higher smoking rates. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/swiss-survey-finds-no-health-benefits-from-pet-ownership --- Cite as: Swiss study on pet ownership and health. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/swiss-study-on-pet-ownership-and-health