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In reply to the discussion: Good morning my DU family, [View all]

magicarpet

(19,050 posts)
5. No human is an island. We need to interact to remain healthy and happy.
Thu Apr 23, 2026, 09:22 AM
Thursday

How Loving Animals Boost Serotonin and Dopamine
Interacting with a loving animal — such as petting a dog, holding a cat, or spending time with a therapy animal — can trigger measurable increases in serotonin and dopamine in the human brain, both of which are key “feel-good” neurotransmitters.

Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, appetite, and overall well-being. Positive interactions with animals have been shown to raise serotonin levels, which helps reduce anxiety, promote calmness, and improve a positive outlook biologyinsights.com. This effect is often part of a broader neurochemical response that also includes oxytocin (bonding hormone) and dopamine (reward system) iere.org+1.

Dopamine is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. When you engage with a loving animal, especially through physical contact like petting or mutual gaze, dopamine levels rise, contributing to feelings of satisfaction, happiness, and a desire to repeat the interaction iere.org+1.

Much more at link below,...

Google this: - "How loving animals boost the levels of serotonin and dopamine".

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Good morning my DU family, [View all] JMCKUSICK Thursday OP
Good morning, John! Scrivener7 Thursday #1
Hi Scrivener7 JMCKUSICK Thursday #6
Oh so very healthy what you say,... magicarpet Thursday #2
No human is an island. We need to interact to remain healthy and happy. magicarpet Thursday #5
Thank for taking the time to respond Magicarpet. JMCKUSICK Thursday #7
Good Morning John Emile Thursday #3
Hi Emile. JMCKUSICK Thursday #8
Good morning , John. debm55 Thursday #4
Good morning Debbie, please know you're on my mind. JMCKUSICK Thursday #9
Latest Discussions»The DU Lounge»Good morning my DU family...»Reply #5