If you’d rather hug your dog than confide in your partner after a stressful day, you’re in very good company. A new global survey has found that 58% of pet owners turn to their cats or dogs for comfort when stressed – far more than those who choose their partner (32%), family (23%) or even their own children or friends (both 18%).

Commissioned by Mars and the mental health platform Calm, the study of over 30,000 pet owners across 20 countries reveals what many of us already suspected: pets are the real emotional support team.

In fact, 83% of people believe their pet has had a positive impact on their mental health. Whether it’s a quiet cuddle, a wagging tail, or a gentle head bump, pets are quietly improving our lives – without ever needing to say a word.

Sometimes it’s not about doing anything in particular, it’s just that they’re there. More than half of owners (56%) say their pet helps them feel calm simply by keeping them company in silence. Almost a quarter (23%) say they use this time to talk through their worries, with no risk of judgement or backchat. And 84% say the mere presence of their pet is deeply relaxing.

“While we love our pets, we often don’t realise how much they give back,” said Dr Tammie King, a specialist in human-animal interaction at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute.

“Reframing your pet’s daily ‘interruptions’ as loving reminders to pause, breathe and be present can be a powerful wellness tool. Research shows that touch-based pet interactions can boost oxytocin levels in humans. The findings of this survey will help more people reflect on and acknowledge the little wellbeing moments pets nudge us towards on a daily basis.”

Those ‘nudges’ take all kinds of forms. A look, a tail thump, a boop on the hand – all gentle reminders to stop what we’re doing and breathe. The research shows 78% of people say their pet encourages them to step away from work, chores or general daily busyness, with half saying it happens every single day. Nearly three-quarters (73%) say their pet helps them stop overthinking and stay present, while the same number say their pets get them outside – transforming a walk into a wellness routine. Even screens aren’t immune: 77% say their pet helps them take a break from digital devices.

According to Dr Chris Mosunic, Chief Clinical Officer at Calm, this is no small thing.

“We know that small, intentional moments of calm can have a big impact on our overall wellbeing, and our pets have an incredible way of guiding us there,” he said. “A quick dog walk, or cat cuddle at our desk when they stroll in front of the screen, can provide a simple moment to reset and recharge.”

It’s no coincidence these insights are landing during Mental Health Awareness Week, when many of us are reflecting on what actually helps us feel better. Turns out, it’s not another mindfulness app or a self-help book – it might just be the creature snoozing on the sofa next to you.

The Mars and Calm partnership is now inviting pet lovers to share stories of their animals’ emotional superpowers, with selected tales inspiring future Calm content. They’ve also launched a quiz called My Pet Guru, which helps you discover your pet’s ‘wellbeing superpower’ based on how they interact with you. Spoiler alert: it’s probably not “respects personal space”.