Animals and your mental health

How they can support your wellbeing and recovery 

This section explains different ways that animals can help your mental health and how you can get animal support. It also explains your rights and who might care for your pet in different situations. This information is for people who are 18 or over and affected by mental illness in England.

Frequently asked Qs

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All the information in on this page was correct, to the best of our knowledge, when we published it. If you think any information is incorrect you can help us by emailing us at feedback@rethink.org. Many thanks.

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© Rethink Mental Illness 2024

First published July 2024
Next update July 2025, subject to any changes

Version number 1