Study Shows Pet Owners Have More Self-esteem

A study published recently in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology shows that pet owners have greater self-esteem than those without pets. They are more physically fit, less lonely, more conscientious, more socially outgoing and have healthier relationship styles.

"We know that singles take their relationships with their pets just as seriously as they do with their lovers," explains Kim Hughes, Singles and Dating Expert for Lavalife.com. "Now we are digging deeper to find out what our pets say about our personalities and how that can influence our relationships with two-legged creatures."

Lavalife.com recently polled singles about their furry friends and the results were eye-opening:

• 47% would ditch a lover if they didn't get along with their pet
• 10% would consider shared custody of a pet after a relationship ended
• 60% of single men polled wouldn't kick Fido out of the bedroom even when getting intimate with a lover.

"We can tell a lot about a person not only from the type of pet they have but also where they acquired their pet," Hughes continues. "Here are some clues that singles can use to help decode potential paramours."

Store-bought, breeder bought or rescued:

• People who purchase pets from a pet store tend to be more impulsive
• People who buy from a breeder are more analytical
• People who rescue pets from shelters are known to be comfortable with risk and especially compassionate

Size matters:

• Large dogs need lots of exercise, so owners of large breeds tend to be more active, outgoing and assertive
• Small dog owners tend to be more detail-oriented and some may even be neat freaks

Dog vs. Cat:

• Cat lovers tend to be more independent and scholarly
• Dog owners have been found to be more conscientious, agreeable and extroverted

"Having a pet requires a person be responsible


and it is not always possible to do things on a whim, so don't count on the last-minute date or sleepover," explains Dr. Rachel Needle, Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist.

Other research suggests that there is a connection between the way a partner treats his pet and how he or she treats their significant other. Likewise, treating a potential mate as you would your animal can lead to a more successful relationship.

Lavalife and Dr. Rachel Needle offer tips for singles on how to breed successful human relationships:

• Be honest - you don't beat around the bush when Fido or Fluffy doessomething to upset you. Being direct and verbally honest can lead to better relationships and communication.
• Don't hold a grudge - with animals, we forgive and move on. With humans and in our relationships, we should do the same.
• Know your limits - we set boundaries with our pets: Don't sit on the couch, don't chew my shoes. In relationships, we should do the same.  Know your own wants, needs, social, emotional and sexual limits and communicate them to your partner.
• Show affection on a daily basis - it's amazing what even a small gesture of affection can do. Merely placing your hand on someone's arm or touching their back gently can communicate that you care and make your partner feel good.
• Trust your instinct - pets can sense right away if they are going to get along with another animal in the park. If your gut tells you that you are not with the right person, follow it. There are plenty of fish inthe sea... and dogs in the dog park.

"If someone is kind and loving towards their pet, that is a good indication that they will likely be that way towards a lover as well," continues Dr. Needle. "However, be careful if your partner is too attached to their pet or if they treat their pet poorly. This can be a red flag!"

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