Influence of Animals on Perceived Likability of People

Previous studies have reported positive health and social benefits of pet ownership; however, most of these studies have been correlational in nature, so the directionality of effects remained unclear. The present study attempted to measure likability of pet owners in an experimentally controlled setting and to assess whether likability varies with type of pet. Subjects were 175 college students in introductory psychology classes. Analysis indicated that individuals are perceived as more likable when they are accompanied by a dog than when accompanied by a cat, a bird, or no animal.