Therapeutic Effect of Household Pets As Perceived by The Nursing Students BSN 3B Group 5 Manuscript

Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
ISO 9001:2015 CERTIFIED
“THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS AS PERCEIVED BY THE
NURSING STUDENTS”
An Undergraduate Thesis
Presented to the Faculty of College of Nursing,
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
By:
JEAN KARLO C. CABALBAG
CAITLIN E. CALDERON
BENIGNO C. CUCAL JR.
KIMBERLY P. DEL CASTILLO
ARRIANNE CECILLE U. GUTIERREZ
JOSIEPHINE B. SACDAL
May 2021
THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS ii
APPROVAL SHEET
This thesis entitled “THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF PETS AS PERCEIVED BY

THE NURSING STUDENTS” prepared and submitted by Jean Karlo C. Cabalbag,
Caitlin E. Calderon, Benigno C. Cucal Jr., Kimberly P. Del Castillo, Arrianne Cecille
U. Gutierrez, and Josiephine B. Sacdal, in partial fulfillment for the requirements of the
subject, Nursing Research II, has been examined and is recommended for approval.
Sevilla C. Guinto, MAN, RN

Adviser
--------------------------------------------------------------
Approved in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the Degree Bachelor of
Science in Nursing by the Research Examining Committee.
RESEARCH EXAMINING COMMITTEE
DR. JEAN N. GUILLASPER, RN

Chairman
ZUZETTE B. CATABONA, MAN, RN CHEENA B. MALLARI, MAN, RN, LPT

Member Member
MRS. EMILY A. FLORES, MAN, RN

Member
--------------------------------------------------------------
Accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor of
Science in Nursing
Date:
Dr. Jean N. Guillasper, FRIEdr, FRI(Rs)

Dean, College of Nursing
THERAPEUTIC EFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The researchers would like to express their deep appreciation of indebtedness to
the following:
To our research adviser and BSN 3B Block B adviser Ma’am Sevilla C. Guinto,
including our research instructor and mentor Ma’am Cheena B. Mallari for their shared
ideas, opinions, recommendations, and for their endless love and support.
To the chairman of the research of panel of evaluators and Dean of the College of
Nursing, NEUST Dr. Jean N. Guillasper for allowing us to conduct this study at the
College of Nursing, NEUST, and to our diligent respondents which are the student nurses
from level I to Level IV who answered our survey forms via online.
To the hard-working Dr. Yolanda D. Pangilinan, the Dean of the College of
Nursing, Dr. Gloria D. Lacson Foundation Colleges Inc. for allowing us to conduct pilot
testing at their college including the student nurses that gave time to answer our survey
forms online despite their busy schedules.
To our faculty panel of evaluator Ma'am Emily A. Flores, moderator/facilitator
Ma'am Zuzette B. Catabona, recording secretaries Ma'am Cecile L. Alday, and Sir Kim
Jay D. Rivera, and other supportive faculty members of the College of Nursing, NEUST
for their shared knowledge and recommendations during the proposal and final defense.
To all our loving and caring parents, friends, and classmates who helped,
supported, and encouraged us not to give up for us to finish this study.
And last but will never be forgotten, the above all, the greatest Almighty God, the
author of knowledge and wisdom, for His nonstop guidance, care, and protection and His
countless love.
THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS iv
DEDICATION
The completion of this study could not be possible without the participation and
assistance of many people whose names may not be all enumerated. The contributions are
sincerely appreciated and gratefully acknowledged. However, we are humbly dedicating
this study to our supportive and loving parents, to those people that we acknowledged
and mentioned for their support and for their shared ideas, opinions and
recommendations to finish this study.
The researchers are also dedicating this study to those authors of the books, thesis,
dissertations, articles and websites that we utilized as the sources for our study. Thank
you so much! You deserved to be thanking for.

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE........................................................................................................................i
APPROVAL SHEET..........................................................................................................ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...............................................................................................iii
DEDICATION....................................................................................................................iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS....................................................................................................v
LIST OF FIGURES.........................................................................................................viii
LIST OF TABLES...........................................................................................................viii
THESIS ABSTRACT.........................................................................................................x
CHAPTER I: PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING
Introduction...........................................................................................................11
Statement of the Problem......................................................................................12
Objectives of the Study..........................................................................................12
Hypothesis.............................................................................................................14
Assumptions...........................................................................................................14
Scope, Limitations and Deliminations of the Study.............................................15
Significance of the Study.......................................................................................15
Theoretical and Conceptaul Framework of the Study...........................................16
Definition of Terms...............................................................................................23
CHAPTER II: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS vi
Related Literature and Studies in Thematic Format..........................................25
Therapeutic Effect Defined...........................................................................25
Mental Health Benefits of Having Dogs on College Campuses...................25
Animals as a Stress Reducer.........................................................................30
Disadvantages of Having Household Pets at Home......................................32
The Relevance of Surveyed Literature and Studies.............................................33
Pet Preferences in terms of Age and Sex......................................................33
Pet Preferences in the USA and Philippines.................................................34
Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Behavioral Effects...........................................34
Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Emotional Effects............................................35
Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Cognitive Effects.............................................35
Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Physical Effects...............................................36
CHAPTER III: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Methods of Research..............................................................................................37
Research Locale.....................................................................................................37
Samples and Sampling Design..............................................................................39
Research Instrument..............................................................................................39
Reliability and Validity.........................................................................................40
Construction and Administration of Instrument...................................................40

Response Mode/Scoring........................................................................................41
THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS vii
Statistical Treatment of Data.................................................................................41
Procedure of Analysis...........................................................................................44
Ethical Considerations...........................................................................................44
CHAPTER IV: PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF
DATA
I. The Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents.........................................45
II. The Type of Household Pets............................................................................48
III. Therapeutic Effects of Pets.............................................................................49
3.1. Behavioral Effects..................................................................................50
3.2. Emotional Effects...................................................................................53
3.3. Cognitive effects....................................................................................58
3.4. Physical Effects......................................................................................61
Summary of Overall Categories....................................................................65
IV. Relationships..................................................................................................66
4.1. Socio-Demographic Profile Vs. Therapeutic Effect..............................66
4.2. Type of Pet Vs. Therapeutic Effect........................................................68
CHAPTER V: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary................................................................................................................70
Summary of Findings............................................................................................70
Conclusions............................................................................................................71
THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS viii
Recommendations..................................................................................................72
REFERENCES................................................................................................................74
APPENDICES.................................................................................................................77
Appendix A: Letter of Approval for Dean of CON, NEUST................................77
Appendix B: Letter of Approval for Dean of CON GDLFC Inc..........................79
Appendix C: Research Adviser's Certification.....................................................81
Appendix D: Survey Questionnaire......................................................................82
Appendix E: Gantt Chart Work Plan.....................................................................86
Appendix F: Budget Proposal...............................................................................90
CURRICULUM VITAE................................................................................................91
DOCUMENTATIONS.....................................................................................................97
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Attachment Theory of Pets and Pet Owners......................................................18
Figure 2: Adoptation of Attachment Theory.....................................................................21
Figure 3: Research Paradigm............................................................................................22
Figure 4: Map of NEUST General Tinio Campus............................................................38
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: The Assigned Weight, Rating Scale and VI........................................................43
Table 2: The Interpretation of 5 Point Rating Scale..........................................................43

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS ix
Table 3: The Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents..........................................46
Table 4: The Type of Household Pets...............................................................................48
Table 5: Behavioral Effects...............................................................................................50
Table 6: Emotional Effects................................................................................................53
Table 7: Cognitive effects.................................................................................................58
Table 8: Physical Effects....................................................................................................61
Table 9: Summary of Overall Categories..........................................................................65
Table 10: Socio-Demographic Profile Vs. Therapeutic Effect.........................................66
Table 11: Type of Pet Vs. Therapeutic Effect...................................................................68

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS x
THESIS ABSTRACT
Title : Therapeutic Effects of Household Pets as Perceived by
the Nursing Students
Researchers : Cabalbag, Jean Karlo Calugay, Calderon, Caitlin Evasco, Cucal,
Benigno Jr. Capada, Del Castillo, Kimberly Paclibar, Gutierrez,
Arrianne Cecille Urquiola and Sacdal, Josiephine Basa
Adviser : Mrs. Sevilla C. Guinto MAN, RN
Degree : Bachelor of Science in Nursing
School : Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology
Date of Defense : May 21, 2021
This study was conducted to identify the therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of
behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects as perceived by the nursing
students studying at Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology. A quantitative
descriptive correlational method and a non-probability purposive sampling technique
were utilized and 32 items survey questionnaire was used for gathering the data. The
Majority of the respondents are female (78.9%). Almost all of the respondents are ages
ranges from 18 - 21 (95.1%). The Majority of the respondents are level II student nurses
(49.7%) almost half of the population. Almost all of the respondents owned a domestic
mammal type of pet (dog, cat, and rabbit) 98% in total. Furthermore, results indicated
that interaction with pets can help student nurses become productive, can help them feel
relaxed, decrease the feeling of racing thoughts, and can help student nurses boost their
energy. This study was conducted during the school year 2020 - 2021.
Keywords. household pets, nursing students, therapeutic effects, perceive

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS 11
CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING
Introduction
A therapeutic effect according to Definitions.Net is a consequence of the medical
treatment of any kind, the results of which are judged to be desirable and beneficial. This
is true whether the results were expected, unexpected, or even an unintended
consequence of the treatment. In this study, the researchers will use the word “therapeutic
effects” in terms of the behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects of
household pets on the student nurses. When we say therapeutic effects of pets, it is the
beneficial, desirable, unexpected, and expected effects of interaction between the pet and
a person. People with pets often experience greater health benefits than those without.
Pets have evolved to become acutely attuned to humans and our behavior and emotions.
Most pet owners are clear about the immediate joys that come with sharing their lives
with companion animals. However, many of us remain unaware of the physical and
mental health benefits that can also accompany the pleasure of snuggling up to any type
of pet depending on the preferences of the pet owner. It’s only recently that studies have
begun to scientifically explore the benefits of the human-animal bond. Eating fruits and
vegetables, exercising, controlling stress, and getting enough sleep every night are vital
components to overall health and longevity. However, having pets at home can also help
in the overall mental and physical health of pet owners. According to Mental Health
America, the term “Pet Effect”, also known as the human-animal bond, is the mutually
beneficial relationship between people and animals that positively impacts the health and
well-being of both.
This is quantitative descriptive correlational research and the goal of the study is
to identify the therapeutic effects of any type of pets to student nurses based on their
experiences in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects. The data
that the researchers will collect will be used as recommendations in collaboration with
front-line organizations or agencies to incorporate in the discussion for the programs,
webinars, and/or seminars about the benefits of having household pets at home and how
pets help the mental health of pet owners.
Many research about the effects of household pets on college students are being
conducted in the Philippines as they face the academic life in different universities and
colleges in the said country and even other work such as hospitals and offices, but lacking
focus on the recommendations about the therapeutic effects of pets and emphasizing its
advantages to the pet owners which clearly shows that there is a gap in this area of
research.
Statement of the Problem
This study seeks to find answers about the therapeutic effect of household pets as
perceived by nursing students. More specifically, it seeks to find an answer to the
following questions:
1. What are the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of their:
1.1. age;
1.2. sex; and
1.3. year level
2. What type of pet do student nurses have at home?
3. What are the therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of:

3.1. behavioral effects;
3.2. emotional effects;
3.3. cognitive effects; and
3.4. physical effects
4. Is there a significant relationship between the therapeutic effect and the type of pet?
5. What are implications may be drawn from the results of the study to enhance the
therapeutic effects of household pets?
Objectives of the Study
The researchers will acquire adequate knowledge about the outcomes,
recommendations, and conclusions of the said research and are willing to contribute
evidence-based knowledge for future researchers, student nurses and professors, and
other medical professionals such as recreational therapists or psychiatrist and to
determine whether pets at home produces therapeutic effects in terms of behavioral,
emotional, cognitive and cognitive effects. The following are the specific objectives:
 To be able to identify whether there is a significant relationship between the type of
pet and the therapeutic effects to student nurses in terms of behavioral, emotional,
cognitive, and physical effects.
 To be able to identify whether there is a significant relationship between the
therapeutic effects and the socio-demographic profile of respondents in terms of age,
sex, and year level of the student nurses.
 To be able to identify whether household pets help the overall mental health of
student nurses based on the behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical
therapeutic effects.
 To be able to identify and assess the experiences of nursing students about the
therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive,
and physical effects.
Hypothesis
This research is guided by the following null hypothesis:
 There is no significant relationship between the type of household pets and the
therapeutic effects.
 There is no significant relationship between the student nurse's socio-demographic
profile (age, sex, and year level) and the therapeutic effects in terms of behavioral,
emotional, cognitive, and physical effects.
Assumptions
After conducting this study, the researchers will be able to identify the therapeutic
effects of pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects on
student nurses of NEUST and whether these results will be used as an opportunity in
introducing and improving the knowledge that is evidence-based about therapeutic effects
of household pets. The results can be utilized as additional knowledge that will
incorporate in the discussion in the college or university programs (e.g. webinars,
seminars) pertaining to the benefits of household pets about the mental and physical
health of the students not just in the College of Nursing but it is also applicable in the
whole university. Student nurses of NEUST will play a significant role as respondents of
the study by honestly expressing their thoughts and experiences while interacting with
their pets at home.

Scope, limitations, and Delimitation
This study is confined to assess and identify the therapeutic effects of household
pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects as perceived by the
nursing students. This study will be limited to the most important characteristics of each
difficulty in learning and framework based on surveys and related literature. This study
will be limited also to experimental studies about the effects of any therapies that have
something to do with the utilization of household pets to alleviate stress, anxiety,
depression, and other mental health issues. It was conducted at Nueva Ecija University of
Science and Technology, General Tinio Campus. The population of the study is the
bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) students from level I to level IV who have any type
of pets at home.
Significance of the Study
The findings of the study are beneficial to the following:
Academe. The results of the study will provide the newest information about
household pets and their role to improve the mental and physical health of their owners.
Furthermore, the results of the study will provide a pathway to the mind of the scholars
that allows comprehending specific issues through varied angles that were never
identified or talked about much.
Future Researchers. This study serves them to have a background about the
therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and
physical effects, and to identify what type of household pets improve the mental and
physical health of student nurses and have a guide to set realistic and meaningful goals in
the therapeutic effects of household pets.

Future Patients. This study will help the patients who suffer from stress,
depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues as they can consider household pets to
help them improve their condition.
Psychotherapists in the Philippines. The results of the study serve as an
opportunity for them to consider household pets as one of the possible effective therapy
for their clients in managing specific illnesses and diseases in mental or physical health.
Student Nurses. This study may serve as the student's guide to consider
household pets to help them improve their mental and physical health.
Teachers. The result of this study provides important evidence for teachers of
students to further consider household pets as a tool to improve the social skills and self-
esteem of the students.
Theoretical Framework
To introduce and describes the theory that explains why the research problem
under the study exists, the following are the related theories formulated to explain and
understand the phenomena of the research. According to Beck, Alan on his book entitled:
The biology of the human-animal bond on 2015, there are three main theories that may be
involved in interaction with pets that produces positive effect to the health of the owner
these are as follows:
The biophilia hypothesis. Throughout reported human history, there appears
awareness and even appreciation of the natural world. This attraction has been named
“the biophilia hypothesis” simply, “the innate tendency to focus on life and lifelike
processes”. Surgical patients who could view a garden had a shorter length of stay in the
hospital and required fewer analgesics than those who had a view of a brick wall. People
interacting with a dog have a decline in blood pressure compared with interacting with a
person or even just resting. The importance of viewing nature, especially animals,
appears to be deep-seated into the human psyche. People viewing photographs rapidly
flashing in front of them were more likely to notice animals than inanimate objects,
despite the size of the objects; this is believed to be a reflection of innate priorities for
animals rather than an object. In another study, conscious neurosurgical patients observed
dozens of photographs of animals, famous people, or recognizable places while their
amygdala was being monitored for activity. Photographs of animals triggered greater
activation of the amygdala than views of famous people, landmarks, or common objects,
indicating a category-specific recognition that animals are important to people.
Viewing nature in the form of aquarium fish relaxes people, reduces their blood
pressure, and even lessens anxiety, even when undergoing dental surgery. Patients with
advanced Alzheimer's disease are often so agitated that they do not stop for meals and
lose bodyweight to the level of endangering their health. Basic fish tanks hold the
attention of these patients, and they significantly gain body weight and are less a burden
on the staff. Nothing seems to hold the attention of Alzheimer's disease patients but fish
tanks; apparently noticing nature, biophilia, survives even dementia. The typical features
of the young mammal animal, which are also typical features of most mammalian pets,
also capture our attention, which encourages people to pay more attention to tasks that
require concentration.
Attachment Theory. The first attachment theorist was John Bowlby in 1958, who
was very much influenced by animal ethologists, especially Konrad Lorenz, and his
studies of imprinting. This psychological connectedness between infants and their

mothers starts at birth but is part of human behavior throughout life and is the basis for
our interactions with significant people in our lives. The concept of attachment to pets is
widely accepted as the best explanation of the relationship with the companion animals;
attachments to pets are often viewed as being even more secure than those with people.
All the psychological scales used to assess the owner’s relationship with his pet is based
on human attachment theory. Like all emotional needs, at times, the attachment people
have to their pets can be exaggerated and even pathological, interfering with normal daily
functioning, but for the most part, our relationship with companion animals is beneficial
to all involved.
Figure 1: Attachment Theory of Pets and Pet Owners

(Hawkins et al., 2017)
Social Support Theory. These social benefits to people are shared by the
companion animals and probably for the same or at least similar reasons. Oxytocin,
produced in the hypothalamus, is found in all mammals, and it has an important role in
the neuroanatomy of intimacy, specifically in sexual reproduction, in particular during
and after childbirth. Oxytocin release is associated with pair-bonding in all mammals
studied, including monogamous rodents, and is believed to enhance the feelings of well-
being. Dog owners gazing at their pet experience an oxytocin release, more than just
seeing any dog, indicating a positive emotion. But a true “bond” is mutual and it is not
surprising that dogs exhibit an oxytocin release when engaging in a positive social
interaction, like being stroked, by a human. Stroking a horse reduces its heart rate and
likely results in an oxytocin release as well. It is interesting to note that the tamed foxes
discussed earlier had greater oxytocin concentrations than the non-tame controls,
indicating that domestication is both a physiological and a morphological process, and
both enhance the bonding between people and their domestic animals. Domestication has
changed our relationship with animals, and perhaps also not surprisingly, it has changed
the relationship of animals with people. Dogs have been domesticated the longest of all
animals, and they uniquely exhibit behaviors that are very much part of the human world.
Dogs can discriminate familiar and unfamiliar human faces by sight, and unlike no other
animal, can follow the direction of the point or gaze of a human. Being able to ascertain
or understand the intentions or knowledge of others is a cognitive ability known as
having a theory of mind. Not having this ability is often seen in those with autism
spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD. Only the
domestic dog can, without any special training, anticipate the intentions of a person just
from viewing his or her behavior. Dogs can also discriminate people just from their faces
just as humans can. But humans are clever animals too, as they can recognize positive
and negative effects from just the face of a dog, even people who never owned a dog. Just
as the human brain (amygdala activation) is activated by the sight of an animal, the
canine brain (caudate activation) responds differentially to the odors of familiar and
unfamiliar people.
Conceptual Framework
Bowlby’s Attachment and social support theories support the idea that interaction
with pets has benefits in terms of the mental health of its owner. Attachment theory is
relevant to this study because humans can form strong attachments to their pets, and at
least some pets display attachment behaviors toward their human caretakers. In some
cases, these bonds have been found to support or enhance the physical and emotional
well-being of both species. It can support the expected outcome of research that
household pets at home improve the mental and physical health of pet owners. Social
support theory may have a significant benefit to the student nurses in terms of behavioral,
cognitive, and physical effects.
The second figure on page 21 shows the adaptation of Bowlby’s Attachment
Theory. It describes the interaction between the pet owners and their pets, this theory will
produce beneficial effects of household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive,
and physical effects. Under the behavioral effects, the pet owner will produce the
following effects: increases productivity, improve school performance, decrease the use
of Alcohol, avoid nervous behavior such as nail-biting, fidgeting, grinding teeth, and/or
pacing. Under the emotional effects: help feel relaxed, decrease the feeling of being
agitated, frustrated, moody, overwhelmed, worthless, being lonely, low self-esteem, and
feeling of avoiding others. Under the cognitive effects: decrease the feeling of being
constant worrying, forgetful, inability to focus, pessimistic, help make appropriate
decisions. And for physical effects: help boost energy, improve sleep patterns, alleviate
headache, decrease the feeling of having tense muscles, clenching jaw, chest pain,
decrease heart rate, improve blood pressure, and breathing patterns.

ATTACHMENT OF PET OWNERS (Student

Nurses) AND THEIR PETS
Produces the following

effects:
BEHAVIORAL EMOTIONAL COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

 Increases  Help feel  Decrease  Help boost
productivity relaxed feeling of energy,
 Improve  Decrease being improve
school feeling of constant sleep
performance being worrying, patterns
 Decrease agitated, forgetful,  Alleviate
use of frustrated, inability to headache
Alcohol moody, focus,  Decrease the
 Avoid over- pessimistic feeling of
nervous whelmed,  Help make having tense
behavior worthless, appropriate muscles,
such as nail being decisions clenching
biting, lonely, low jaw, chest
fidgeting, self-esteem, pain
grinding and feeling  Decrease
teeth and/or of avoiding heart rate,
pacing others improve
blood
pressure,
and
breathing
patterns
Figure 2: Adoption of Attachment Theory (Attachment of

Pets and Pet Owners)
. INPUT PROCESS
1. What are the The Researchers Process:

demographic profile
Data will obtained through:
of the respondents in
terms of their: Online survey questionnaire (google form)
Statistical Treatment:
1.1. age;
1.2. sex; and Percentage
Frequency
1.3. year level Weighted Mean
Pearson product moment correlation coefficient
2. What type of pet

do student nurses
have at home?
3. What are the OUTPUT

therapeutic effects
Identify the therapeutic effects of pets in alleviating academic stress as perceived by the nursing st
of household pets in
terms of: Identify whether household pets at home alleviate academic stress of student nurses.
2.1.the
Incorporate behavioral;
results of the study in the discussion (e.g webinars, seminars) pertaining about the benefits of having pe
2.2. emotional; in the University.
2.3. cognitive; and

2.4. physical
4. Is there a significant
relationship between
the therapeutic effect
and the type of pet?
5. What are the

implications may be
drawn from the Feedback
results of the study to
enhance therapeutic
effects of household
Figure 3: Research Paradigm
pets?
In this research, the researchers utilized the Input, Process, and Output (I.P.O).
Given this framework, the input will include the respondent’s socio-demographic profile
such as age, sex, and year level, typing their names are optional. After the demographic
profile, below are the questions that seek to find the answer in this research. Under the
process phase, the researchers will utilize a researcher-made questionnaire as the main
tool for gathering the data and this will be distributed to our respondents which are the
student nurses studying at NEUST who owned any type of pet at home. Under the output
phase are the expected outcome of the research, the researchers are expected to meet
these goals in order to provide knowledge that is evidence-based about the therapeutic
effects and the benefits of having household pets at home.
Definition of Terms
Behavioral Effects. The way in which a person acts in response to a particular
situation or stimulus with the help of a pet.
Cognitive Effects. The way in which a person acts to a particular situation or
stimulus involving conscious intellectual activity with the help of a pet.
Emotional Effects. The way in which a person acts to a particular situation or
stimulus involving conscious mental reaction, mood, or relationships with others with the
help of a pet.
Household Pets. It can be domestic mammals (dog, cat, rabbit), small domestic
mammals (hamster, guinea pig), birds, or fish ordinarily permitted in a place of residence,
kept for company and pleasure.
Perceive. To recognize, discern, envision, or understand.

Physical Effects. The way in which a person acts to a particular situation or
stimulus involving the body as opposed to the mind with the help of a pet.
Therapeutic Effect. The response after a treatment of any kind, the results of
which are judged to be useful or favorable whether the result was expected, unexpected,
or even an unintended consequence.
Student Nurse. A person who is training to be a nurse at Nueva Ecija University
of Science and Technology, General Tinio Campus.

CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter provides an overview of previous research on knowledge sharing
and intranets. It introduces the framework for this study that comprises the focus of the
research described in this research.
Related Literature and Studies in Thematic Format
The Therapeutic Effect Defined
According to the APLMED dictionary n.d., a therapeutic effect is a consequence
of medical treatment of any kind, the results of which are judged to be desirable and
beneficial. This is true whether the result was expected, unexpected, or even an
unintended consequence of the treatment. An adverse effect, on the other hand, is a
harmful and undesired effect.
According to an online dictionary called “Definition.net” (2021), therapeutic
effect refers to the response(s) after a treatment of any kind, the results of which are
judged to be useful or favorable. This is true whether the result was expected,
unexpected, or even an unintended consequence. An adverse effect (including nocebo) is
the converse and refers to harmful or undesired response(s). What constitutes a
therapeutic effect versus a side effect is a matter of both the nature of the situation and the
goals of treatment. No inherent difference separates therapeutic and undesired side
effects; both responses are behavioral/physiologic changes that occur as a response to the
treatment strategy or agent.

The Mental Health Benefits of Having Dogs on College Campuses
College can be a very stressful time for students. Many are away from home for
the first time and may experience homesickness or have difficulty functioning while
away from friends and family. Freshmen, in particular, may face difficulties with
adjusting to a new situation and learning to handle new responsibilities. Such difficulties
are compounded for individuals suffering from psychological issues like anxiety and
depression. According to the Center for Collegiate Mental Heath 2015 Annual Report,
100,736 students at the 139 colleges and universities contributing to the report sought
counseling during the 2014-2015 academic year, with 79,331 students attending at least
one counseling appointment. The most common psychological issues faced by these
students were anxiety (56.91%), stress (46.63%), and depression (45.93%). When
clinicians were asked to choose one primary concern per client, they indicated anxiety
(20.0%), depression (15.8%), and relationship problem (specific) (9.4%), and stress
(5.9%). The report also revealed that over the previous 6 years, the number of students
seeking counseling services increased by 29.6% and the total number of counseling
appointments increased by 38.4%; both of these greatly exceed the increases in
enrollment over that time. While rates of some psychological problems have remained
relatively stable or have declined, the report indicated increases in self-reported
depression, anxiety, and social anxiety over the previous five years (Center for Collegiate
Mental Health, 2015). In another study, Beiter et al. (2015) studied depression, anxiety,
and stress among college students. The researchers found that 11% of the students
reported dealing with stress, 15% experienced anxiety, and 11% struggled with
depression. The students who reported dealing with stress also indicated several concerns
causing their stress. These included financial problems, academic success, post-
graduation plans, lack of sleep, and relationships with family and friends. The American
College Health Association stated that in the previous 12 months, 58.4% of students
reported overwhelming anxiety, 36.7% reported difficulty functioning due to depression,
and 9.8% seriously considered suicide (American College Health Association, 2016). In
the United States, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 15-24 and
ages 25-34 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2014). Drum, Brownson,
Denmark, and Smith (2009) found that 6% of undergraduate students and 4% of graduate
students had considered committing suicide in the past 12 months. Of the students that
had made a suicide attempt, 23% of the undergraduate students and 27% of the graduate
students were considering making another suicide attempt. Another issue faced by college
students is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In a review of data from Wave 5 of the
National Longitudinal Transition Study-2, Roux et al. (2015) noted that of all the
participants (aged 21-25) with autism spectrum disorders, 40% had attended 2 or 4-year
colleges or vocational/ technical school within eight years of graduating high school.
White, Ollendick, and Bray (2011) estimated that between 1 in 53 and 1 in 130 college
students meet the criteria for diagnosis of HFASD (high-functioning autism spectrum
disorder). These individuals may face other issues as well. White et al. found significant
positive correlations between symptoms of ASD and social anxiety, depression, and
aggression among a sample of 667 undergraduate students. Literature describing the
experiences of college students with autism spectrum disorders is scarce and further
research in this area is needed (Roux, et al., 2015). It can be difficult for students dealing
with mental illnesses or developmental disorders to excel in their school work. College
students with mental illnesses are about twice as likely as other students to drop out of
college. Approximately 86% of those with mental illnesses withdraw before graduating
compared to 45% of the general student body (Salzer, 2012). For college students who
are depressed, being involved on campus, maintaining good grades, and even preserving
relationships with friends and family can be difficult. Being more involved with
organizations, having a close friend group, and having better relationships with their
administrators are all associated with depressed students having higher graduation rates
and reporting higher satisfaction with their college experience (Salzer, 2012). Whether it
is anxiety, depression, autism, or any of the other issues faced by college students, it is
clear that many students are experiencing psychological challenges. Given this, and the
impact that these issues may have on their academic success, it is important that colleges
offer services aimed at helping students deal with their problems. Students' use of
counseling services the need for mental health services for college students has increased
and colleges must work to meet the demand (Center for Collegiate Mental Health, 2015).
Many colleges offer counseling services at little or no cost to students. Unfortunately,
fewer than half of students with mental health issues seek help from campus counseling
services (Salzar, 2012). The annual report from the American College Health Association
found that only 25.1% of students had been diagnosed with or treated for any mental
health condition in the past 12 months (American College Health Association, 2016).
Kim, Saw, and Zane (2015) stated that the relatively low number of students seeking
treatment may in part be due to a lack of mental health literacy. Their studies showed that
college students who are experiencing depression or anxiety were less likely to recognize
symptoms of depression and that all groups of participants had low mental health literacy
regarding anxiety. The studies also found that participants experiencing at least moderate
anxiety or depression were less likely to indicate a need to seek psychological help.
D'Amico, Mechling, Kemppainen, Ahern, and Lee (2016) investigated college students'
usage of counseling services and what barriers kept students from seeking counseling.
They found that those who were the least likely to use the services had family and friends
who were likely to stigmatize them for needing help. They also found that those who
were more likely to use the counseling services were also more likely to use alternative
counseling services like yoga, meditation, and exercise. Salzer (2012) also hypothesized
that many college students do not use counseling services provided to them because of a
fear of retaliation and stigma, and emphasized a need for colleges to destigmatize mental
illness. A major problem is the lack of knowledge that people have about mental
disorders. Some students may not take advantage of counseling because of ignorance or
misperception of psychological issues. Scientific research and anecdotal evidence support
the idea that college students with mental illness experience intolerance from other
students on a significant scale; this issue has become increasingly relevant as the number
of students with mental illness attending college has increased (Granello & Granello,
2000). Granello and Granello found that students with more inclusive definitions of
mental illness were more accepting. So it seems educating all college students, including
those who do not suffer from psychological issues, could be beneficial in increasing the
number. In addition to reducing stress, research suggests that spending time with a
therapy dog reduces anxiety levels in college students. Shearer, Hunt, Chowdhury, and
Nicol (2016) conducted a study that compared the effects that mindfulness meditation
and interacting with a therapy dog had on the anxiety and stress levels of college
students. The interactions with the therapy dog decreased the amount of stress and
anxiety and were suggested to be an effective treatment. However, the mindfulness
meditation sessions lowered the student's anxiety levels more than the sessions with the
therapy dog. Crossman, Kazdin, and Knudson (2015) experimented with three groups of
students from a medical school. The experimental group briefly pet/play with a dog for
up to ten minutes. The no-interaction control group viewed pictures of dogs. Lastly, the
no-treatment control group was told by the experimenters that they would interact with
the dogs, but the participants only waited for the dogs and did not get to play with them.
Compared to the controls, interacting with the dog was accompanied by decreased
anxiety and negative mood and increased positive mood. Stewart et al. (2014)
investigated the potential of a single two-hour session with a therapy dog to impact
anxiety and loneliness among college students. The students were able to interact with the
dog and with other students during the session. Pre- and post-session measures indicated
significant decreases in anxiety and loneliness. Further, the students rated the interaction
with the dog as being the most beneficial aspect of the session. Research has suggested
that interaction with animals can be helpful for individuals with autism. However,
Siewertsen, French, and Teramoto (2015) point that it is still unclear exactly what is
causing the effects and how long-lasting they may be. As stated earlier, there is a lack of
research on college students with autism (Roux, et al., 2015).
Animal as a Stress Reducer
Stress has been defined as a state of mental tension or something that causes
strong feelings of worry or anxiety. Stress can influence a person's behavior by making
them more productive or negatively affect a person by reducing one's concentration,

motivation, or eating habits. Numerous factors impact a student's academic work; public
speaking is a common fear amongst all American's and is typically seen in a college
classroom. Animal-assisted interventions have significant health benefits with improving
physiological states within the human body when a person is stressed. The current study
aims to show whether or not the presence of a dog can reduce stress. If a dog is present
during an evaluation situation in the classroom a student's stress levels may be decreased,
thus positively impacting their testing abilities. This thesis measures stress using four
variables: blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), heart rate, nervous habits (operationally
defined as sudden, repetitive, or non-rhythmic motor movements or vocalizations that are
observable and inadvertently performed by the person being observed), and self-reported
survey, State-Trait Anxiety Inventervention. Seventeen undergraduate and graduate
students at a state university in California were used as participants in this thesis. The
results indicate the public speaking task 'was stress-inducing with increases in heart rate,
nervous habits, and STAI results.
The topic of human-animal interactions, the resulting human-animal relationships,
and the benefits accrued by both parties is a contemporary issue that has aroused the
interests of many stakeholders in comparative psychology. Questions on whether the
relationship is symbiotic or 'parasite-hosting nature have arisen. Either way, it is apparent
to the majority of the researchers that humans are the principal beneficiaries of this
relationship. The main benefits accrued are health benefits; increased learning
capabilities; improved moods; and reduction of stress and anxiety. With increased levels
of stress, human-animal interaction proves to be one of the most efficient strategies to
ease the situation. Over 85% of students in institutions of higher learning report
experiencing stress daily. Research findings prove that a majority of higher education
institutions have adopted programs to ensure that their students interact with therapeutic
animals. The level and frequency of programs, nonetheless, remain to be very low. One
recommendation of this report is that WPI should expand the level and frequency of
human-animal interactions to reduce stress on campus.
Disadvantages of Having Household Pets at Home
According to Wilburnpet, Debbie about her article entitled Advantages and
Disadvantages of Pet Ownership for the Elderly which posted on the website
accesswdun.com in 2017, ownership is not for everyone and it is important to look
honestly at its potential disadvantages before a person decides to share his/her home with
a pet.
Limited mobility. Pets can hinder travel if satisfactory pet-sitting arrangements
aren't available.
Physical demands. Some animals require more exercise than their elderly owners
can give them. Pets that are not housebroken can soil furniture and carpets. Uncontrolled
animals can also cause property damage to neighbors and the community.
Disease. Although few diseases are transmitted by pets to their owners, some
elderly people in frail health are more susceptible to such diseases.
Concern for the animal if the owner becomes sick or dies: Many people are
reluctant to have a pet because they fear that no one will take care of the animal should
they become unable to do so.
Grief over the death of a pet. Many elderly people cherish their pets as beloved
companions and members of the family. When the animal dies, its owner may be
overwhelmed with grief as strong as if he/she had lost a human companion. For people
who are alone in the world, the death of a pet can be an inconsolable loss.
According to Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School n.d., It's not
always easy caring for pets, however, and sometimes having them in the home poses
health hazards for older adults. "If you have problems with gait and stability and your pet
can get under your feet or jump up and knock you over, then falls and broken bones are a
real danger," says Dr. Fricchione.
There are also sanitary risks associated with pet ownership. Animals can carry
parasites that can be transferred to humans. Cats, in particular, carry a parasite called
Toxoplasma gondii, which can get into your brain and cause a condition known as
toxoplasmosis. People with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable to
this. Animal feces carry all kinds of bacteria that can make you sick. Dogs and cats can
also cause allergic reactions in some pet owners.
The published literature on animals reducing stress has shown profound effects on
its participants. This study aims to expand the research on the use of animals in a stress
reduction setting which may prove beneficial for nursing college students, who tend to
have a variety of stressors in their lives.
The Relevance of the Surveyed Literature and Studies to Present Research
Pet Preferences in terms of Age and Sex
In a survey conducted in 2019, it was revealed that Millennials represented the
biggest share of pet owners in the United States (31 percent), followed in second place by
Baby Boomers (29 percent). Generation Xers came in third, representing some 26 percent
of pet owners.
Based on the study of Del Rosario et al, in 2015 about their study entitled “Pet
Animals: To Own and Love”, conducted at the City of Biñan, Laguna. Most of the pet
owners are Males and had a high level of attachment to their pets in terms of time,
money, and love, and care, and agreed that their pets had a positive impact on their
psychological, physiological, social, and emotional well-being. According to a 2017
survey, Millennial males (48%) in the United States were more likely to be cat and/or dog
owners than their female counterparts.
Pet Preferences in the USA and Philippines
According to the World Atlas survey about The Most Popular Animals Owned As
Pets In The US, Dogs rank number 1 with a total of 48,255,413 households in the United
States owning a dog. However, In the Philippines, Three cities from the Philippines
figured in the study: Manila, Taguig, and Quezon City. Out of the three, Quezon City
loved dogs more than cats at 36 percent. While Taguig's preference for dogs scored low at
27 percent (Chua, 2021). CARA Welfare Philippines in 2018 stated that Filipinos have
domestic pets because research has shown that pet owners are generally healthier and
happier than non-pet owners. Furthermore, according to CARA, most Filipino pet owners
have lower blood pressure and cholesterol; are less depressed; are at lower risk of heart
disease; feel less lonely than non-pet owners, and find it easier to get to know people.
Studies have revealed that even just looking at animals can reduce anxiety in times of
stress.
Therapeutic Effects of Pets in terms of Behavioral Effects
According to Kliff, Sarah in her article entitled, “Want to increase your
productivity? Study says: Look at this adorable kitten”, A team of researchers at

Hiroshima University recently conducted a study where they showed university students
pictures of baby animals before completing various tasks. What they found, in research
published today, was that those who saw the baby animal pictures did more productive
work after seeing those photographs. According to Filipino Veterinary Medicine Doctor
Nielson Donato, Another unexpected benefit of having pets around is that they encourage
you to exercise more. Taking a dog for a walk or playing with your feline friends like
tossing a mouse toy around the house can get you moving a bit too. Studies have shown
that pet owners who walked their dogs for up to 20 minutes five days a week lost an
average of 14.4 pounds in a year.
Therapeutic Effects of Pets in terms of Emotional Effects
According to News in Mental Health in their article entitled “The Power of Pets”,
interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related
hormone) that can help the pet owner to feel relax. According to Fransisco, Katerina in
2017, Filipinos who have appointments or check-ups with Dr. Camille Ann Asuncion can
have physical interaction with a 3-year-old dog, and based on the responses of the clients,
they feel a little more relaxed and at ease, bridging the gap between patient and doctor.
Therapeutic Effects of Pets in terms of Cognitive Effects
According to Mental Health Foundation about their article entitled “Pets and
mental health”, Pets can also have calming effects on their owner. Just stroking, sitting
next to, or playing with a pet can give owning a chance to relax and calm their mind. it
was found that students’ positive mood increased, but only for those who directly
interacted with a dog. According to Villan, Tyne in 2015 in his article entitled Why
having a pet can help improve your health posted on GMA network news online, studies
prove that spending a 15 to 30-minute moment with your cat and dog pals reduces
tension and depression. Aside from that, playing with them more often also raises your
brain’s levels of dopamine and serotonin.
Therapeutic Effects of Pets in terms of Physical Effects
Dogs, cats, and other pets encourage playfulness, laughter, and exercise, which
can help boost your immune system and increase your energy according to Lundgren, Kai
et al. in 2021 about their article entitled “The Health and Mood-Boosting Benefits of
Pets”. According to Garcia, Kevin in 2019 in his article entitled “5 Reasons Why Every
College Student Should Get a Dog”, pets need to be walked three to four times a day for
at least 15 minutes each., according to The Dogington Post. While focusing on your
studies is important, it can keep you indoors. Having a dog gives you a reason to go
outside for a walk once in a while. Being outside with your dog it’s a great excuse to not
be on your phone and just enjoy the outdoors and clear your mind.
CHAPTER III
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This study discusses the methodology, procedure, sources of data, samples and
sampling design, research tools/instrument, construction, and administration, reliability
and validity as well as the questionnaires, response mode/scoring, statistical treatment of
data, and procedure of analysis. Furthermore, this chapter shows how the researchers
come to the necessary data for the study, and how this data analyzed, interpreted, and
presented.
Methods of Research
The researchers utilized quantitative descriptive correlational. It is a type of non-
experimental research in which the researchers measure two variables and assess the
statistical relationship between them with little or no effort to control extraneous
variables. The researchers selected this type of research design to analyze and interpret
numerical data based on the result of the survey questionnaire and as well as to describe
the variables and the relationships that occur naturally between and among this study and
to identify whether the hypothesis presented is rejected or accepted.
Research Locale
The researchers conducted the study at Nueva Ecija University of Science and
Technology General Tinio Campus, General Tinio Street, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija.
And the target respondents are the student nurses studying at NEUST who have any type
of household pets.
Satellite image of Nueva Ecija University of Science and

Technology, General Tinio Campus. Source: Google map
Image of Nueva Ecija University of Science and

Technology, General Tinio Campus. Source: Google map
Image of Nueva Ecija University of Science and

Technology, General Tinio Campus Source:
http://endahds24.blogspot.com
Figure 4: Map of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology General

Tinio Campus, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Samples and Sampling Design
The researchers utilized purposive sampling to reach the desired sample.
Purposive sampling is a non-probability sampling method and it occurs when elements
selected for the sample are chosen by the judgment of the researcher, they may be chosen
based on their knowledge of the study being conducted or if they satisfy the traits and
conditions set by the researchers. The researchers utilized the purposive sampling to
select all the student nurses who owned any type of pet as respondents and exclude the
student nurses who are not pet owners to satisfy the traits and conditions set by the
researchers. The researchers will be using purposive sampling to survey the populations
of student nurses of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology General Tinio
Campus, General Tinio Street, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija from level I to Level IV.
The total number is 346 nursing students.
Research Instrument
The research instrument used in this study is a self-made survey questionnaire
formulated by the researchers. The references used by the researchers to formulate the
questionnaire are from the study of the American Institute of Stress (AIS) in 2020 entitled
“The Effects of Stress”. The importance of this chosen instrument is to collect the data
from the respondents to test the reliability and validity of the research study being
conducted. The questionnaire is consist of three parts which are the: (1) socio-
demographic profile of the student nurses in terms of their age, sex, and year level, (2)
what type of pet student nurses have at home, and (3) what are the therapeutic effects of
household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive and physical signs and
symptoms. The questionnaire is consists of thirty-two (32) item questions (except for the
demographic profile). It is a systematically prepared set of questionnaires designed to
produce responses from chosen respondents.
Reliability and Validity
The researchers’ research adviser and other faculty members of the College of
Nursing validated the questionnaires prepared by the researchers. Their corrections and
suggestions were considered and incorporated in the draft for the next stage of validation.
Before administration of the instrument used, the survey questionnaire was subjected to a
reliability test through Cronbach’s alpha. It is used to measure internal consistency, that
is, how closely related a set of items are as a group (Statistical Consulting Group, 2016)
and the result was 0.96. It is considered to be a measure of scale reliability. A “high”
value for alpha does not imply that the measure is unidimensional. Pilot testing was
carried out on the instrument. The pilot testing was conducted at Dr. Gloria D. Lacson
Foundation Colleges Inc. and the participants are 10 student nurses randomly selected
from level I to level IV based on the availability of the students. After conducting the
pilot testing, the results were sent to the statistician for final validation of the used
instrument. The results of pilot testing with recommendations and suggestions of the
statistician were sent back to the researchers and the recommendations were considered
and incorporated for the next stage which is the data gathering. The researchers asked the
target respondent's consent and permission and encourage them to answer the survey
questionnaires online via a google form.
Construction and Administration of the Instruments
This study was conducted at the NEUST College of Nursing department,
permission will be asked by the researchers and the researcher's research adviser to the
people in charge which are the Dean of the College of Nursing, the academic unit head,
and other faculty members. The survey was given ahead of time (one week before
gathering the results) to complete online using google forms. The researchers are in
charge of the distribution of the survey forms to the nursing students of NEUST.
Response Mode/Scoring
The items in the questionnaire are made use of three parts and consist of thirty-
two (32) questions, 1 question for part 2, and 31 questions for part 3. The researchers
utilized the Likert scale type of questionnaire to identify and assess the respondent's
opinions and/or experiences about the therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of
behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects.. Part 3 of the survey questionnaire
have a verbal interpretation of the following based on the Likert scale: (5) as strongly
agree, (4) as agree, (3) as slightly agree, (2) as disagree, and (1) as strongly disagree for
the interpretation of the data.
Statistical treatment of data
After collecting the data needed, the researchers are now ready to tabulate and
analyze the gathered data with the help of statistical tools. The researchers interpreted the
data gathered by the following statistical treatment:
Percentage. The profile of the respondents used determined using the frequency
count, percentage, and ranking. The purpose of this tool is to determine the number of
responses for males and females and to identify the highest and lowest percentage for
each age group from the respondents and as well as the year level of student nurses.
Weighted Mean. The weighted mean is used in order to identify the average
degree of respondents. Another descriptive statistic is synonymous with average. It is the

summation of all the values divided by the total number of respondents. A weighted
mean is a kind of average. Instead of each data point contributing equally to the final
mean, some data points contribute more “weight” than others. This type of statistical tool
is used to identify the mean scores of each question provided by the researchers for their
respondents and to interpret the results of highest to lowest mean scores.
Pearson Product-moment Correlation. The Pearson product-moment correlation
is used by the researchers to measure the degree of relationship that exists between the
therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and
physical effects and the type of pets whether the pet is a domestic mammal, small
mammal, bird, or fish.
The Pearson correlation coefficient is used to measure the strength of a linear
association between two variables, where the value R = 1 means a perfect positive
correlation and the value R = -1 means a perfect negative correlation.
To determine the satisfaction of the respondents which are the student nurses of
NEUST who owned pets, a 5-point Likert scale will be used to determine easily the
responses of each respondent to every question. According to Bhandari, the Likert scale
is a rating scale used to assess opinions, attitudes, or behaviors. Likert scales are popular
in survey research because they allow researchers to easily operationalize personality
traits or perceptions. To determine the minimum and the maximum length of the 5-point
Likert type scale, the range is calculated by (5 − 1 = 4) then divided by five as it is the
greatest value of the scale (4 ÷ 5 = 0.80). Afterward, number one which is the least value
on the scale was added. The questionnaire will use a five-point scale, each point
corresponding to a liker item:

Assigned Weight Rating Scale Verbal Interpretation
5 4.21 – 5.00 Strongly Agree
4 3.41 – 4.20 Agree
3 2.61 – 3.40 Slightly Agree
2 1.81 – 2.60 Disagree
1 1 - 1.80 Strongly Disagree
Table 1: The assigned weight, rating scale and Verbal interpretation

The questionnaire will use a five – point scale, each point corresponding to a liker
item:
This means that the student nurses meets the

5 Strongly Agree
criteria excellently.

4 Agree
criteria in very good manners.

3 Slightly Agree
criteria in good manners.

2 Disagree
criteria that need improvement.

1 Strongly Disagree
criteria in a manner that need a total revision.
Table 2: The interpretation of five (5) point rating scale

The Procedure of Data Analysis
The presentation summarizes the planning of choosing quantitative research in
order to process, collect and analyze numerical data from the respondents. The first step
in the process was to ask for approval. The researchers and their research adviser asked
for consent and approval from the Dean of the College of Nursing. Collections of data
through the questionnaire to the respondent were distributed in each block of the College
of Nursing Department from level I to level IV online via google form. After the data
gathering process and the tabulation of the data, the results were sent to the statistician for
data analysis using the statistical tools presented above to identify the highest frequency,
percentage, mean score of each data presented and to identify whether the hypothesis
presented is accepted or rejected.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations must be observed to prevent conflict from the respondents
and to ensure that the aims of research such as knowledge, truth, and avoidance of error
will be met by means of the following: by collecting and analyzing the data from the
respondent, the researchers ensured the privacy of each respondents who answered the
survey by giving them the right to choose whether to put their names on the survey forms
or not. Including their names on the survey forms are optional so that the respondents will
avoid feelings of hesitations while answering the survey forms. Sharing any data from the
respondents outside the group are prohibited as long as it is for academic purposes and
anonymity measures are being observed to protect the rights of the respondents.
CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
The purpose of this chapter is to summarize the collected data and the statistical
treatment, and/or mechanics, of analysis. This chapter presents the tabulation of data
which are the socio-demographic profile of respondents according to their age, sex, year
level, and as well as the summary of the results of the following questions: what type of
pet do student nurses have at home? and what are the therapeutic effects of household
pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects?
I. Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents
The student nurses of NEUST are the respondents of the study, the total number
of respondents is 346 respondents and all of them are pet owners. Below shows the table
of the result of the demographic profile of the respondents based on the survey
questionnaire. The rows with green colors represent the highest mean score, highest
percentage, and highest rank among all the items presented.
Table 3
1. The Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents
SOCIO-
DEMOGRAPHIC
ITEMS FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE RANK
PROFILE OF
RESPONDENTS
18-21 329 95.1% 1
22-25 13 3.8% 2
1.1. AGE 26-29 3 0.9% 3
30-33 1 0.3% 4
TOTAL N = 346 P = 100%

Continuation…
Female 273 78.9% 1
1.2. SEX Male 73 21.1% 2
TOTAL N = 346 P = 100%
Level I 95 27.5% 2
Level II 172 49.7% 1
1.3. YEAR LEVEL Level III 70 20.2% 3
Level IV 9 2.6% 4
TOTAL N = 346 P = 100%
1.1. Age
The table shows that most of the respondent's ages range from 18-21 years old
with a frequency of 329 and a total percentage of 95.1% rank 1st in the table. Followed
by the respondent's ages range from 22 to 25 years old with a frequency of 13 and a
percentage of 3.8%, next is the respondents with ages ranges from 26-29 years old with a
frequency of 2 and a percentage of 0.9% rank 3rd in the table. Last is the respondent age
ranges from 30-33 with a frequency of 1 and a percentage of 0.3% rank 4th in the table.
The total respondents are 346 with a total percentage of 100%.
To support the results of the study, based on the data given by the presidents of
each block from level I to level IV, most of the population of student nurses are from
level 2, they have a total population of 291 from block A to block H followed by the
level I with a total population of 147 student nurses and level III with a total population
of 112 student nurses that is why most of the respondents ages range from 18 - 21 years
old. The
additional study concluded that during a survey conducted in 2019, it was revealed that
Millennials represented the biggest share of pet owners in the United States (31 percent),
followed in second place by Baby Boomers (29 percent). Generation Xers came in third,
representing some 26 percent of pet owners.
Therefore, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents who owned pets
are 18-21 years old.
1.2. Sex
The table shows that most of the respondents in this study are females. The
frequency for females is 273 with a percentage of 78.9% of the population, rank first in
terms of Sex. The second one is the males, the frequency is 73 with 21.1% of the whole
population rank second in the table. The overall respondents for this table are 346 with a
percentage of 100%.
To support the results of the study, According to Del Rosario et al., in 2015 about
their study entitled “Pet Animals: To Own and To Love”, conducted at the City of Biñan,
Laguna. Most of the pet owners are Males and had a high level of attachment to their pets
in terms of time, money, and love, and care, and agreed that their pets had a positive
impact on their psychological, physiological, social, and emotional well-being. According
to a 2017 survey, Millennial males (48%) in the United States were more likely to be cat
and/or dog owners than their females' counterparts.
Therefore, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents from NEUST
student nurses who owned household pets are females. The primary reason for this is as
per the data of the College of Nursing, NEUST, out of 559 student nurses from level 1 to
level IV, there are at least 300 plus females compared to males student nurses.
1.3. Year Level
The table above shows that most of the respondents are Level II nursing students
with a frequency of 172 and a percentage of 49.7% followed by the Level I student
nurses with a frequency of 95 and a percentage of 27.5% rank 2nd in the table. Next are
the Level, 3 student nurses, with a frequency of 70 and a percentage of 20.2%. last in the
rank are the Level IV student nurses with a frequency of 9 and a percentage of 2.6%.
To support the result of the study, as per the data of the College of Nursing,
NEUST, there are 291 student nurses from level II and it is considered the largest
population out of all the three levels, followed by 147 student nurses from level I and 112
student nurses from level III and 15 student nurses from level IV.
Therefore, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents are from level II.
II. The Type of Pets Owned by Student Nurses
Table 4
The Type of Household Pets
TYPE OF HOUSEHOLD
FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE RANK
PETS
Domestic Mammal (Dog,
339 97.98% 1
Cat, Rabbit)
Small Domestic Mammal
2 0.58% 3.1
(Hamster, Guinea Pig)
Bird 2 0.58% 3.2
Fish 3 0.86% 2
N = 346 P = 100%
The table above shows that most of the respondents have domestic mammal pets
(dog, cat, and rabbit) with a frequency of 339 (almost all) and a percentage of 97.98%
followed by the respondents who have fish as their pets with a frequency of 3 and a percentage of
0.86% followed by small domestic mammal pets (hamster and guinea pigs) and birds, each has a
frequency of 2 with a percentage ranging from 0.58%.
To support the results of the study, according to the World Atlas survey
about: “The Most Popular Animals Owned As Pets In The US”, Dogs rank number 1 with
a total of 48,255,413 households in the United States owning a dog. However, In the
Philippines, Three cities from the Philippines figured in the study: Manila, Taguig, and
Quezon City. Out of the three, Quezon City loved dogs more than cats at 36 percent.
While Taguig's preference for dogs scored low at 27 percent (Chua, 2021). CARA
Welfare Philippines in 2018 stated that Filipinos have domestic pets because research has
shown that pet owners are generally healthier and happier than non-pet owners.
Furthermore, according to CARA, most Filipino pet owners have lower blood pressure
and cholesterol; are less depressed; are at lower risk of heart disease; feel less lonely than
non-pet owners, and actually find it easier to get to know people. Studies have revealed
that even just looking at animals can reduce anxiety in times of stress.
Therefore, researchers conclude that most of the respondents have domestic
mammal pets (dog, cat, and rabbit).
III. The Therapeutic Effects of Pets
The following tables described and explain the results based on the survey that
was being conducted by the researchers to the respondents. Each table is composed of
eight rows that contain the different therapeutic effects of household pets (behavioral,
emotional, cognitive, and physical effects), weight (W), frequency (F), percentage (P),
weighted frequency (WF), weighted mean (WM), its corresponding verbal interpretations
(VI) and the rank (R) as well. The columns contain all the questions answered by the
respondents. The rows that have a color of green represent the highest mean score and the
rows that have a color of light orange represent the lowest mean score.
Table 5
The Therapeutic Effects of Pets in Terms of: Behavioral Effects
3.1 BEHAVIORAL W F P WF WM VI R
5 125 36.13% 625

3.1.1 Interaction with pets 4 143 41.33% 572
can help me become 3 67 19.36% 201 4.09 Agree 1
productive. 2 7 2.02% 14
1 4 1.16% 4
Total: 346 100% 1,416
5 73 21.10% 365
can help me improve my 3 106 30.63% 318 3.76 Agree 5
school performance. 2 20 5.78% 40
1 4 1.16% 4
Total: 346 100% 1,299
5 128 36.99% 640

can help me decrease the 3 79 22.83% 237 3.71 Agree 7
use of alcohol. 2 25 7.23% 50
1 32 9.25% 32
Total: 346 100% 1,285

Continuation…

can help me avoid 4 101 29.19% 404
exhibiting nervous 3 86 24.86% 258 3.81 Agree 4
behavior such as nail- 2 20 5.78% 40
biting. 1 19 5.49% 19
Total: 346 100% 1,321
5 120 34.68% 600

can help me avoid unusual 3 75 21.68% 225 3.87 Agree 3
behavior such as fidgeting. 2 19 5.49% 38
1 17 4.91% 17
Total: 346 100% 1,340
5 115 33.24% 575

can help me avoid unusual 3 74 21.39% 222 3.89 Agree 2
behavior such as pacing. 2 18 5.20% 36
1 14 4.04% 14
Total: 346 100% 1,347
5 112 32.37% 560

3.1.7 Interaction with pets
4 106 30.64% 424
can help me avoid unusual
3 81 23.41% 243 3.75 Agree 6
behavior such as grinding
2 24 6.94% 48
my teeth.
1 23 6.64% 23
Continuation…
Total: 346 100% 1,298
Behavioral Effects: 3.84 Agree
The table above consists of seven questions under the category of behavioral
effects of therapeutic effects of pets. Based on the results, The first in the rank is question
number 3.1.1 in the table (interaction with pets can help me become productive) with a
mean score of 4.09 with its corresponding verbal interpretation “agree”. Question number
3.1.6 (interaction with pets can help me avoid unusual behavior such as pacing) got a
total mean score of 3.89 having a verbal interpretation of “agree” and ranked second for
the category of behavioral effects. Question number 3.1.5 (interaction with pets can help
me avoid unusual behavior such as fidgeting) ranked third with a total mean score of 3.87
and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Fourth in the rank is question number 3.1.4
(interaction with pets can help me avoid exhibiting nervous behavior such as nail-biting),
it has a total mean score of 3.81 with its corresponding verbal interpretation of “agree”.
Question number 3.1.2 (interaction with pets can help me improve my school
performance)fifth in the rank, having a total mean score of 3.76 with its corresponding
verbal interpretation of “agree”. Second, to the last is question number 3.1.7 (interaction
with pets can help me avoid unusual behavior such as grinding my teeth) with a total
mean score of 3.75 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. The lowest mean score in the
first table (3.71) is question number 3.1.3 (interaction with pets can help me decrease the
use of alcohol) ranked seven and has a verbal interpretation of “agree”.

To support the outcomes of the result, According to Kliff, Sarah about her article
entitled, “Want to increase your productivity? Study says: Look at this adorable kitten”, A
team of researchers at Hiroshima University recently conducted a study where they
showed university students pictures of baby animals before completing various tasks.
What they found, in research published today, was that those who saw the baby animal
pictures did more productive work after seeing those photographs. The result of the said
study can support the results of this research concluding that pets at home can increase
the productivity of student nurses. According to Filipino Veterinary Medicine Doctor
Nielson Donato, Another unexpected benefit of having pets around is that they encourage
you to exercise more. Taking a dog for a walk or playing with your feline friends like
tossing a mouse toy around the house can get you moving a bit too. Studies have shown
that pet owners who walked their dogs for up to 20 minutes five days a week lost an
average of 14.4 pounds in a year.
Therefore, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents believed that
interaction with pets can help the student nurses become productive.
Table 6
The Therapeutic Effects of Pets in Terms of: Emotional Effects
3.2 EMOTIONAL W F P WF WM VI R
5 150 43.35% 750

feeling of being agitated. 2 8 2.31% 16
1 2 0.58% 2
Continuation…
Total: 346 100% 1,449
5 165 47.69% 825

can help me decrease the 3 38 10.98% 114 Strongly
4.29 3
feeling of being frustrated. 2 10 2.89% 20 Agree
1 2 0.58% 2
Total: 346 100% 1,485
5 157 45.38% 785

4.22 4
feeling of being moody. 2 9 2.60% 18 Agree
1 3 0.86% 3
Total: 346 100% 1,463

5 141 40.75% 705
can help me decrease the
4 132 38.15% 528
feeling of being
3 59 17.06% 177 4.14 Agree 7
overwhelmed (like you are
2 11 3.17% 22
losing control or need to
1 3 0.87% 3
take control).
Total: 346 100% 1,435

Continuation…
5 219 63.29% 1,095

4 88 25.43% 352
3.2.5 Interaction with pets Strongly
3 32 9.25% 96
can help me feel relaxed. 4.49 1
2 5 1.45% 10 Agree
1 2 0.58% 2
Total: 346 100% 1,555
5 162 46.82% 810

feeling of being worthless. 2 11 3.18% 22
1 5 1.45% 5
Total: 346 100% 1,445
5 206 59.54% 1,030

4.43 2
feeling of being lonely. 2 7 2.02% 14 Agree
1 2 0.58% 2
Total: 346 100% 1,536
5 127 36.71% 635

4 119 34.39% 476
3 71 20.52% 213 3.97 Agree 8
feeling of having low self-
2 21 6.07% 42
esteem.
1 8 2.31% 8
Continuation…
Total: 346 100% 1,374
5 123 35.55% 615

can help me decrease the 3 74 21.39% 222
3.93 Agree 9
feeling of avoiding others. 2 21 6.07% 42
1 10 2.89% 10
Total: 346 100% 1,361
4.2
Emotional Effects: Agree
0
The table above has nine questions under the category of emotional effects of
therapeutic effects of pets. Question number 3.2.5 (interaction with pets can help me feel
relaxed) rank first in the table for emotional effects with a total mean score of 4.49 with
its corresponding verbal interpretation of “strongly agree”. Ranked second is question
number 3.2.7 (interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of being lonely) with
a total mean score of 4.43 and a verbal interpretation of “strongly agree”. The third, in the
rank, is question number 3.2.2 (interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of
being frustrated)with a total mean score of 4.29 and a verbal interpretation of “strongly
agree”. Fourth in the rank is the question number. 3.2.3 (interaction with pets can help me
decrease the feeling of being moody) with a total mean score of 4.22 meaning, it will fall
under the verbal interpretation of “strongly agree”. Ranked fifth for the emotional effects
is question number 3.2.1 (interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of being
agitated) with a total mean score of 4.18 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Sixth in
the rank is question 3.2.7 (interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of being
worthless). Next, seventh in the rank is question number 3.2.4 (Interaction with pets can
help me decrease the feeling of being overwhelmed [like you are losing control or need to
take control]) with a total mean score of 4.17 will fall under the verbal interpretation of
“agree”. Ranked eight is question number 3.2.8 (Interaction with pets can help me
decrease the feeling of having low self-esteem). Last in the rank is the last question for
this category (3.2.9 interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of avoiding
others) with a total mean score of 3.93 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”.
To support the outcomes of the result, according to News in Mental Health about
their article entitled “The Power of Pets”, interacting with animals has been shown to
decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) that can help the pet owner to feel
relax. According to Fransisco, Katerina in 2017, Filipinos who have appointments or
check-ups with Dr. Camille Ann Asuncion can have physical interaction with a 3-year-
old dog, and based on the responses of the clients, they feel a little more relaxed and at
ease, bridging the gap between patient and doctor. Therefore, the researchers conclude
that interaction with pets can help nursing students who are pet owners to feel relaxed.
Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social
support, and boost your mood.
Therefore, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents believe that
interaction with pets can help the student nurses feel relax.
Table 7
The Therapeutic Effects of Pets in Terms of: Cognitive Effects
3.3 COGNITIVE W F P WF WM VI R
3.3.1 Interaction with 5 107 30.92% 535

pets can help me 4 159 45.95% 636
decrease the feeling of 3 61 17.63% 183 4.00 Agree 2
being constant 2 14 4.06% 28
worrying. 1 5 1.45% 5
Total: 346 100% 1,387
5 112 32.37% 560

3.3.2 Interaction with
4 149 43.06% 596
pets can help me
3 66 19.08% 198 4.01 Agree 1
decrease the feeling of
2 16 4.62% 32
racing thoughts.
1 3 0.87% 3
Total: 346 100% 1,389
5 85 24.57% 425
4 118 34.10% 472
pets can help me
3 97 28.03% 291 3.67 Agree 6
minimize being
2 36 10.41% 72
forgetful.
1 10 2.89% 10
Total: 346 100% 1,270

Continuation…
5 87 25.14% 435
4 127 36.71% 508
pets can help me
3 95 27.46% 285 3.73 Agree 4
decrease being inability
2 26 7.51% 52
to focus.
1 11 3.18% 11
Total: 346 100% 1,291
5 77 22.26% 385
4 132 38.15% 528
pets can help me to
3 100 28.90% 300 3.69 Agree 5
make appropriate
2 29 8.38% 58
decisions.
1 8 2.31% 8
Total: 346 100% 1,279
5 91 26.30% 455
4 134 38.73% 536
pets can help me
3 91 26.30% 273 3.80 Agree 3
minimize being
2 23 6.65% 46
pessimistic.
1 7 2.02% 7
Total: 346 100% 1,317
Cognitive Effects: 3.82 Agree
Table seven has six questions under the category of cognitive effects of
therapeutic effects of pets. Question number 3.3.2 (interaction with pets can help me
decrease the feeling of racing thoughts) rank first in the said category with a total mean
score of 4.01 and with a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Second in the rank is question
number 3.3.1 (Interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of being constantly
worrying) with a total mean score of 4.00 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Third in
the rank is question number 3.3.6 (Interaction with pets can help me minimize being
pessimistic) with a total mean score of 3.80 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Fourth
in the rank is question number 3.3.4 (interaction with pets can help me decrease being the
inability to focus) with a total mean score of 3.73 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”.
Fifth in the rank is question number 3.3.5 (interaction with pets can help me to make
appropriate decisions) with a total mean score of 3.69 and a verbal interpretation of
“agree”. Last in the rank for this category is question number 3.3.3 which is the
interaction with pets can help me minimize being forgetful with a total mean score of
3.67 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”.
To support the results, according to Mental Health Foundation about their article
entitled “Pets and mental health”, Pets can also have calming effects on their owner. Just
stroking, sitting next to, or playing with a pet can give owning a chance to relax and calm
their mind. it was found that students’ positive mood increased, but only for those who
directly interacted with a dog. According to Villan, Tyne in 2015 in his article entitled
Why having a pet can help improve your health posted on GMA network news online,
studies prove that spending a 15 to 30-minute moment with your cat and dog pals reduces
tension and depression. Aside from that, playing with them more often also raises your
brain’s levels of dopamine and serotonin.

Therefore, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents believed that
interaction with pets can help the student nurses decrease the feeling of having racing
thoughts or overthinking.
Table 8
The Therapeutic Effects of Pets in Terms of: Physical Effects
3.4 PHYSICAL W F P WF WM VI R
5 165 47.69% 825

4 120 34.68% 480
pets can help me boost
3 48 13.87% 144 Strongly
my energy throughout the 4.25 1
2 10 2.89% 20 agree
day.
1 3 0.87% 3
Total: 346 100% 1,472
5 89 25.72% 445
can help me alleviate my 3 94 27.17% 282 3.72 Agree 4
headache. 2 32 9.25% 96
1 10 2.89% 10
Total: 346 100% 1,317
5 89 25.72% 445
4 118 34.10% 472
3 100 28.90% 300 3.71 Agree 5
feeling of having tense
2 28 8.09% 56
muscles.
1 11 3.18% 11
Continuation…
Total: 346 100% 1,284
5 64 18.49% 320
3.4.4 Interaction with 4 113 32.67% 452
pets can help me improve 3 103 29.76% 309 3.43 Agree 9
my sleep patterns. 2 43 12.43% 86
1 23 6.65% 23
Total: 346 100% 1,190
5 105 30.35% 525

4 122 35.26% 488
can help me decrease my
3 84 24.27% 252 3.82 Agree 2
heart rate during onset of
2 25 7.23% 50
stress.
1 10 2.89% 10
Total: 346 100% 1,325
5 102 29.48% 510

4 114 32.95% 456
can help me improve my
3 86 24.86% 258 3.75 Agree 3
breathing pattern during
2 31 8.96% 62
onset of stress.
1 13 3.75% 13
Total: 346 100% 1,299

Continuation…
5 78 22.54% 390
4 109 31.50% 436
3 95 27.46% 285 3.51 Agree 7
feeling of clenching my
2 42 12.14% 84
jaw.
1 22 6.36% 22
Total: 346 100% 1,217
5 73 21.09% 365
4 106 30.64% 424
3 103 29.77% 309 3.47 Agree 8
feeling of having chest
2 41 11.85% 82
pain.
1 23 6.65% 23
Total: 346 100% 1,203
5 78 22.54% 390
can help me decrease my 3 102 29.48% 306 3.55 Agree 6
blood pressure. 2 31 8.96% 62
1 23 6.65% 23
Total: 346 100% 1,229
Physical Effects: 3.69 Agree
The table above shows the category of physical effects of the therapeutic effects
of pets. Based on the data presented above, the first in the rank is question number 3.4.1
(interaction with pets can help me boost my energy throughout the day) with a total mean
score of 4.25 and with a verbal interpretation of “strongly agree”. Second in the rank is
question number 3.4.5 (interaction with pets can help me decrease my heart rate during
the onset of stress) with a total mean score of 3.82 will fall under the verbal interpretation
of “agree”. Third in the rank is question number 3.4.6 (interaction with pets can help me
improve my breathing pattern during the onset of stress) with a total mean score of 3.75
and its corresponding verbal interpretation “agree”. Fourth in the rank is question number
3.4.2 (interaction with pets can help me alleviate my headache) with a total mean score of
3.72 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Fifth in the rank is question number 3.4.3
(interaction with pets can help me decrease the feeling of having tense muscles) having a
total mean score of 3.71 will fall under the verbal interpretation of “agree”. Sixth in the
rank is question number 3.4.9 (interaction with pets can help me decrease my blood
pressure) with a total mean score of 3.55 and a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Seventh
in the rank is question number 3.4.7 (interaction with pets can help me decrease the
feeling of clenching my jaw) with a total mean score of 3.51 and a verbal interpretation
of “agree”. Ranked eight for this category is question number 3.4.8 (interaction with pets
can help me decrease the feeling of having chest pain) with a total mean score of 3.47 and
a verbal interpretation of “agree”. Last in the rank is question number 3.4.4 (interaction
with pets can help me improve my sleep patterns) with a total mean score of 3.43 and a
verbal interpretation of “agree”.
To support the results of the study, dogs, cats, and other pets encourage
playfulness, laughter, and exercise, which can help boost your immune system and
increase your energy according to Lundgren, Kai et al. in 2021 about their article entitled
“The Health and Mood-Boosting Benefits of Pets”. According to Garcia, Kevin in 2019
in his article entitled “5 Reasons Why Every College Student Should Get a Dog”, pets
need to be walked three to four times a day for at least 15 minutes each., according to The
Dogington Post. While focusing on your studies is important, it can keep you indoors.
Having a dog gives you a reason to go outside for a walk once in a while. Being outside
with your dog it’s a great excuse to not be on your phone and just enjoy the outdoors and
clear your mind.
Therefore the researchers conclude that most of the respondents believed that
interaction with pets can help the student nurses boost their energy throughout the day.
Table 9
Summary of Overall Categories
VERBAL
ITEMS FREQUENCY MEAN SCORES
INTERPRETATION
BEHAVIORAL 346 3.84 Agree

EMOTIONAL 346 4.20 Agree
COGNITIVE 346 3.82 Agree
PHYSICAL 346 3.69 Agree
Based on the data presented above (Table 9). The highest among the categories of
therapeutic effects of pets is the emotional effects with an overall mean score of 4.20, and
a verbal interpretation of "agree" followed by behavioral effects having a total mean
score of 3.84 with a verbal interpretation of "agree" while the cognitive effects have an
overall mean score of about 3.82 and a verbal interpretation of "agree" and last in the
rank is the physical effects which have a 3.69 overall mean score and has a verbal
interpretation of agree.
The student nurses having lack knowledge about the utilization of the therapeutic
effects of pets in terms of physical effects since it has the lowest mean score among the
categories of therapeutic effects. Education about the utilization of therapeutic effects of
pets in terms of physical effects should be implemented to identify the benefits of having
pets at home in terms of physical effects to pet owners such as: boost pet owners energy
throughout the day, alleviate headaches, decrease the feeling of having tense muscles and
clenching jaw, improve sleep patterns, decrease heart rate, blood pressure, and chest pain
in its optimum level, improve breathing patterns.
IV. Relationships
Correlation analysis was used to determine the significant relationship between
the socio-demographic profile and therapeutic effects of household pets and the type of
pets and the therapeutic effect. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level. The following
are the analysis and interpretation of results of the relationship for each variable, it is
significant because it will determine whether the hypothesis are met based on the
expectation and assumptions of the researchers.
Table 10
4.1. Socio-Demographic Profile vs Therapeutic Effect

Pearson
.072 -.007 .029 .015
Correlation
Age
Sig. (2-tailed) .180 .892 .58 .784
N 346 346 346 346
Pearson
-.086 -.071 -.071 -.096
Sex Correlation
Sig. (2-tailed) .109 .188 .187 .075
Continuation…
N 346 346 346 346

Pearson
-.064 -.084 -.028 -.054
Year Correlation
Level Sig. (2-tailed) .233 .118 .607 .315
N 346 346 346 346
**. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed).
The table above shows the results of the proposed significant relationship between
the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of age, sex, and year level and
the therapeutic effects of household pets. The results above show that there is no
significant relationship between the socio-demographic profile (age, sex, year level) of
the respondents and the therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of behavioral,
emotional, cognitive, and physical effects. The results were calculated using the Pearson
product-moment correlation and the data are as follows: age (0.72, -.007, .029, and .015),
sex (-.086, -.071, -.071, and -.096), and year level (-.064, -.084, -.028, and -.54)
Up until the present date, there is no concrete evidence of pet preferences between
males and females and pet preferences between age groups. But, according to the study
conducted by Connolly, Jill on February 20, 2019, entitled “Gender Vs. Pet Preferences”
showed that Male students prefer dogs while female students prefer cat as a pet.
Therefore, the researchers conclude that the null hypothesis regarding the
significant relationship between profile (age, sex, year level) and therapeutic effects of
household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical is accepted
because the results are higher than the cut off value or the level of significance.
Table 11
4.2. Type of Pet vs Therapeutic Effect
Pet Correlation -.017 .006 .022 .000
Sig. (2-
.760 .917 .684 .998
tailed)
N 346 346 346 346
**. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed).
The table above shows the proposed significant relationship between the type of
pet and the therapeutic effects of pets. Results show that there is no significant
relationship between the type of pet and therapeutic effects of household pets in
alleviating academic stress in terms of behavioral, r = -0.017, p = 0.760; emotional, r =
0.006, p = 0.917; cognitive, r = 0.022, p = 0.684; and behavioral, r = 0.000, p = 0.998.
This implies that there is no significant relationship between the type of pets and the
therapeutic effect whether the pet is a domestic mammal, small domestic mammal, bird,
or fish.
To support the results of the study, according to News in Health, Pets, especially
dogs and cats, can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage
exercise and playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health. Many scientific
studies show that interacting with fish, birds, horses, dolphins and many other animals
can also help relieve stress. Whether they're furry, feathered, or scaled, remember to
thank your pet for all the health benefits they give to you by taking care of their health
(AZPetVet, 2020).
This implies that the expectations of the researchers from the hypothesis (there is
no significant relationship between the type of pet and the therapeutic effects of
household pets) support the findings or results of the study. It means that the hypothesis is
accepted because the results are higher than the cut-off value or the level of significance.
CHAPTER V
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
This study was conducted to identify the therapeutic effects of household pets of
student nurses studying at Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology in terms of
behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and physical effects. A quantitative descriptive
correlational method and a non-probability purposive sampling technique were utilized
and a thirty-two items survey questionnaire was used for gathering the data. All the
respondents of the study are the student nurses of NEUST who are pet owners with a total
of 346 student nurses from level I to level IV. The study was conducted during the school
year 2020-2021.
Summary of Findings
Based on the result of the study, the majority of the respondents are female with a
frequency of 273 and a percentage of 78.9%. Almost all of the respondents are ages
ranges from 18 - 21 with a frequency of 329 (almost all) and a percentage of 95.1%. The
majority of the respondents are level II student nurses with a frequency of 172 and a
percentage of 49.7% almost half of the population. Almost all of the respondents owned a
domestic mammal type of pet (dog, cat, and rabbit) with a frequency of 339 and a
percentage of 98% in total.
Furthermore, I43 respondents agreed that interaction with pets can help them
become productive under the category of behavioral effects of therapeutic effects of pets
with a total mean score of 4.09. Under the category of emotional effects of therapeutic
effects of pets, 219 respondents strongly agreed that interaction with pets can help them
feel relaxed with a total mean score of 4.49. Under the category of cognitive effects of
therapeutic effects of pets, 149 respondents agreed that interaction with pets can help
them decrease the feeling of racing thoughts with a total mean score of 4.01. Under the
category of physical effects of therapeutic effects of pets, 165 respondents strongly
agreed that interaction with pets can help them boost their energy throughout the day with
a total mean score of 4.25.
On the other hand, using a Pearson product-moment correlation as a statistical
tool, the study found out that there is no significant relationship between the type of pet
and the therapeutic effects of pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and
physical. Hypothesis accepted. There is also no significant relationship between profile
(age, sex, year level) and therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of behavioral,
emotional, cognitive, and physical. Both hypotheses are accepted as well.
Conclusions
Based on the results of the study, the researchers concluded that:
1.) Most of the female student nurses owned a household pet.
2.) Most of the student nurses who owned household pets are 18 to 21 years old.
3.) Most of the student nurses owned a domestic mammal type of pet (dog, cat, and
rabbit).
4.) Having pets at home can produce the following benefits in terms of behavioral,
emotional, cognitive, and physical effects:
4.1.) Having pets at home can increase the productivity of student nurses.
4.2.) Having pets at home can help student nurses to feel relax.
4.3.) Having pets at home can help student nurses to avoid raising negative
thoughts, and
4.4.) Having pets at home can boost their energy throughout the day.
5.) There is also no significant relationship between the socio-demographic profile (age,
sex, year level) and therapeutic effects in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and
physical.
6.) There is no significant relationship between the type of pet and the therapeutic effects
of household pets whether the pet is a domestic mammal, small mammal, bird, or fish.
7.) The student nurses having lack knowledge about the utilization of the therapeutic
effects of pets in terms of physical effects since it has the lowest mean score among the
categories of therapeutic effects.
Recommendations
Based on the conclusions drawn, the following recommendations are offered:
Education about the utilization of therapeutic effects of pets in terms of physical
effects should be implemented to identify the benefits of having pets at home in terms of
physical effects to pet owners such as: boost pet owners energy throughout the day,
alleviate headaches, decrease the feeling of having tense muscles and clenching jaw,
improve sleep patterns, decrease heart rate, blood pressure, and chest pain in its optimum
level, improve breathing patterns. Incorporate the results of the study in the discussion
such as webinars or seminars in collaboration with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society
to emphasize the importance of improving knowledge on how to manage and alleviate
the academic stress of student nurses at NEUST in terms of physical signs and symptoms
of stress.
Regardless of the limitations of the study, there is great flexibility in terms of
future studies that could be beneficial. Future studies could improve strength by obtaining
a more diverse sample not just in the College of Nursing but for other colleges and
departments of the said university as well which could assist with the amounts of stress
and other factors. As a means of minimizing the limitations of studies, future researchers
could potentially use experimental research and utilize human-animal interactions to aid
the quality of the results.
Spending more time with their pets can help them physically and mentally as it is
based on the outcome of the study regardless of what type of pets they have at home. Pets
at home can help them become productive, feel relaxed, prevent or decrease the feeling of
raising thoughts and can help them boost their energy throughout the day.
REFERENCES
BOOKS:
Braastad, Bjarne O., Bente Berget. N.d., Theoretical Frameworks for Animal-Assisted
Interventions, Dept. of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian
University of Life Sciences. Retrieved from:
http://www.umb.no/statisk/greencare/meetings/abstracts_presentations/costwg1br
aastadtheoretical_frameworks.pdf
Videbeck Sheila L., 2017. Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing 8th Edition. Wolters
Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
THESIS AND DISSERTATIONS:
Debbie Wilburn 7/21/03, Advantages and Disadvantages of Pet Ownership for the
Elderly. Retrieved from: https://accesswdun.com/article/2003/7/175375
Del Rosario, Luz Remedios Quito. Yango, Antonio. Dela Paz, Rissel C., Margate, Jodel
Clarissa B. 2015. Pet Animals: To Own and To Love. Retrieved from:
https://uphsl.edu.ph/
Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School. The health benefits and risks of pet
ownership. Retrieved from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-
health-benefits-and-risks-of-pet-ownership
Menon, K. R, Reddy, K. J, Thattil, A. March 18, 2018. Academic Stress and its Sources
Among University Students. Retrieved from: https://biomedpharmajournal.org
Perry, R. M. 2017. The Benefits of Human-Animal Interaction on College Campuses.

Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.wpi.edu/iqp-all/1213
Thakkar, A. April 6, 2018. Academic Stress in Students. Retrieved from:

https://medium.com/one-future/academic-stress-in-students-498c34f064d7
WEBSITE ARTICLES:
Adams,et.al. 2017. "The mental health benefits of having dogs on college campuses"
Modern Psychological Studies: Vol. 22 : No. 2 , Article 7. Retrieved from:
https://scholar.utc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1274&context=mps,
American Institute of Stress. 2017. What is Stress. 220 Adams Drive, Suite 280 - #224,
Weatherford, TX 76086 USA. Retrieved from: https://www.stress.org/what-is-
stress
APLMED,. n.d. Therapeutic Effect. Retrieved from: https://aplmed.com/

AZPetVet. April 10, 2020. How Pets Help Relieve Stress, Stress Relief Animals: The
Pawsome Health Benefits of Pet Ownership. Retrieved from:
http://www.arizonapetvet.com/
Beck, Alan M. 2020. The biology of the human–animal bond. Retrieved from:
https://academic.oup.com
Bedford, Emma. Jul 3, 2020. Generational share of pet ownership in the United States
2019/20. Retrieved from: https://www.statista.com/
CARA Welfare Philippines. 2018. Health Benefits of Having Pets.

Retrieved from https://www.caraphil.org/
Casarella, Jennifer. August 01, 2019. Stress Symptoms. Retrieved from:

https://www.webmd.com
Chua, Paolo. Feb 28, 2021. Filipinos Love Dogs More Than Cats, According to Study.
Retrieved from: https://www.esquiremag.ph/
Čirjak, Antonia. August 20 2020. The Most Popular Animals Owned As Pets In The US.
Retrieved from: https://www.worldatlas.com
Cleveland Clinic. January 28, 2021. Stress. Retrieved from:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11874-stress
Connolly, Jill. February 20, 2019. Gender vs. Pet Preference. Retrieved from:
https://prezi.com/
Danielle Farrell, 2020. Signs of stress. Retrieved from: https://gsas.harvard.edu/student-

life/harvard-resources/signs-stress
Definitions.net. "therapeutic effect.". march 02, 2021. STANDS4 LLC, 2021. Web.
Retrieved from: https://www.definitions.net/definition/therapeutic+effect
Dictionary.com., March 02, 2021, Perceive. Retrieved from:

https://www.dictionary.com/browse/perceive
Farrell, Danielle. 2020. Signs of Stress. Retrieved from:https://gsas.harvard.edu
Francisco, Katerina. 2017. Pets for mental wellness: How dogs play a role in healing,
therapy. Retrieved from: H t t p s : / / w w w. r a p p l e r . c o m /
Kliff, Sarah. Oct. 1, 2012. Want to increase your productivity? Study says: Look at this
adorable kitten. retrieved from: https://www.washingtonpost.com/
Lay L. 2016. Animal as a stress reducer in a academic setting. Lawinsider.,

Household pets definition. Retrieved from:
https://www.lawinsider.com/dictionary/household-pets
Lundgren, Kai. Robinson, Lawrence. Segal, Robert. May 2021. The Health and Mood
Boosting Benefits of Pets. Retrieved from: https://www.helpguide.org/
Mental Health Foundation. N.D. Pets and mental health retrieved from:
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
News in Health. February 2018. The Power of Pets: Health Benefits of Human-Animal
Interaction. Retrieved from:https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/
Statistics How To. N.d. Sampling in Statistics: Different Sampling Methods, Types &
Error. Retrieved from: https://www.statisticshowto.com
The Economic Times. N.d. Definition of 'Stratified Sampling'. Retrieved from:

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com
Tyne Villan. December 17, 2015. Why having a pet can help Improve your health.
Retrieved from: https://www.gmanetwork.com/
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Letter of Approval to Conduct a Research Study at College of Nursing,
NEUST
Appendix B: Letter of Approval to Conduct a Pilot Testing at College of Nursing,

GDLFC Inc.
Appendix C: Research Adviser’s Certification

Appendix D: Survey Questionnaire
I. Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents:
Please provide the following information about yourself by typing and clicking the
statement that corresponds to your answer:
1.1. Name (optional):
1.2. Age:
(18 - 21 years old), (22 - 25 years old), (26 - 29 years old), or (30 - and older)
1.3. Sex
(Male), or (Female)
1.4. Year level
(Level I), (Level II), (Level III), or (Level IV)
II. Please indicate what type of household pets do you have at home (example: dog, cat,
hamster etc.) *If you have more than 1 type of pet, select your most favorite among
them:
III. Therapeutic effects of household pets in terms of behavioral, emotional, cognitive and
physical
Instruction: For each statement, please check (/) by clicking the statement that
corresponds to your answer whether you strongly agree (5), agree (4), slightly
agree (3), disagree (2) or strongly disagree (1).

3.1 Behavioral Effects of Pets: 5 4 3 2 1

3.1.1 Interaction with pets can help me become
productive.
3.1.2 Interaction with pets can help me improve my
school performance.
3.1.3 Interaction with pets can help me decrease the use
of alcohol.
3.1.4 Interaction with pets can help me avoid exhibiting
nervous behavior such as nail-biting.
3.1.5 Interaction with pets can help me avoid unusual
behavior such as fidgeting.
behavior such as pacing.
behavior such as grinding my teeth.
3.2 Emotional Effects of Pets 5 4 3 2 1
3.2.1 Interaction with pets can help me decrease the
feeling of being agitated.
feeling of being frustrated.
feeling of being moody.
feeling of being overwhelmed (like you are losing
control or need to take control).
3.2.5 Interaction with pets can help me feel relaxed.
feeling of being worthless.
feeling of being lonely.

feeling of having low self-esteem.
feeling of avoiding others.
3.3 Cognitive Effects of Pets: 5 4 3 2 1
feeling of being constant worrying.
feeling of racing thoughts.
3.3.3 Interaction with pets can help me minimize being
forgetful.
3.3.4 Interaction with pets can help me decrease being
inability to focus.
3.3.5 Interaction with pets can help me to make
appropriate decisions.
3.3.6 Interaction with pets can help me minimize being
pessimistic.
3.4 Physical Effects of Pets: 5 4 3 2 1
3.4.1 Interaction with pets can help me boost my energy
throughout the day.
3.4.2 Interaction with pets can help me alleviate my
headache.
feeling of having tense muscles.
3.4.4 Interaction with pets can help me improve my sleep
patterns.
3.4.5 Interaction with pets can help me decrease my heart
rate.
3.4.6 Interaction with pets can help me improve my
breathing pattern during onset of stress.

feeling of clenching my jaw.
feeling of having chest pain.
3.4.9 Interaction with pets can help me decrease my
blood pressure.
Appendix E: Gantt Chart
Month of January 2021

Research Activities Person Responsible
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
Proposal
preparation
1.1 Organization
of team members, Kimberly P. Del
meetings for Castillo, Caitlin E.
assigned tasks for Calderon
each members
1.2 Meeting with Kimberly P. Del
research Advisor Castillo, Caitlin E.
Calderon
Chapter I: The
Problem and its
Setting
2.1 Creating
Benigno C. Cucal Jr.
Introduction
2.2 Identifying
and creating
Benigno C. Cucal Jr.,
statement of the
Jean Karlo C.
Problem and
Cabalbag
formulating
questionnaires
2.3 Creating
theoretical
framework and Benigno C. Cucal Jr.
Conceptual
framework
2.4 Formulating
Hypothesis and Josiephine B. Sacdal
Assumptions
2.5 Identifying
the significance
Josiephine B. Sacdal,
of the study and
Jean Karlo C.
the Scope,
Cabalbag
limitation and
Delimitation
2.6 Creating Jean Karlo C.
Definition of Cabalbag, Josiephine
terms B. Sacdal
Chapter II: Review
of Related
Literature
3.1 Analyzing,
creating and
organizing review
Kimberly P. Del
of related
Castillo
literature for
Animal-assisted
therapy
3.2 Analyzing,
Caitlin E.
creating and
Calderon, Arrianne
organizing Local
Cecille U.
Synthesis
Gutierrez
3.3 Analyzing,
Caitlin E.
creating and
Calderon, Arrianne
organizing
Cecille U.
Foreign Synthesis
Gutierrez
Chapter III:
Research
Methodology
4.1 Creating
methods of
Benigno C. Cucal Jr.,
research, research
Jean Karlo C.
locale and
Cabalbag and
identifying
Josiephine B. Sacdal
samples and
sampling design
4.2 Organizing
Research tools
Kimberly P. Del
and instrument,
Castillo
construction and
administration
4.3 Analyzing
Reliability,
Caitlin E. Calderon
validity, response
mode/scoring
4.4 Creating
statistical
Arrianne Cecille U.
treatment of data
Gutierrez
and procedure of
analysis
Submission of
Kimberly P. Del
research paper to
Castillo, Caitlin E.
research advisor for
Calderon
checking
Checking and
editing research All members
paper for errors
Submission of Kimberly P. Del

research paper for Castillo, Caitlin E.
proposal defense Calderon
APRIL 2021 MAY 2021
Research Activities W W W W Person Responsible
W1 W2
1 2 3 4
Pilot Testing
Preparation
Preparing letters
and questionnaire All members
for pilot testing
Descimination of
questionnaire for Kimberly P. Del
pilot testing at Castillo
GDLFC Inc.
Gathering of Data Kimberly P. Del
for Pilot testing Castillo
Checking of
Statistician
Validity
Data Gathering
Data Gathering
from the All members
respondents
Submission of Kimberly P. Del
Final Tabulation Castillo
Data Analysis Statistician
Chapter IV.
Presentation,
analysis, and
interpretation of
data
Tabulating the
All members
results
Interpretation of
data for the
Benigno C. Cucal Jr.
demographic
profile
Interpretation of
data for the part II
All members except
and part III of
Mr. Cucal
survey
questionnaire
Interpretation of
Kimberly P. Del
data for the
Castillo, Benigno C.
relationships of
Cucal Jr.
variables
Chapter V.
Summary,
Conclusion,
Recommendations
Constructing the Jean Karlo C.
summary of the Cabalbag, Josiephine
results B. Sacdal
Formulating Arrianne U.
Conclusions Gutierrez
Formulating
Recommendation Caitlin E. Calderon
s
Submission of
research paper to Kimberly P. Del
research advisor for Castillo
checking
Checking and
Sevilla C. Guinto,
editing research
Cheena B. Mallari
paper for errors
Submission of
Kimberly P. Del
research paper for
Castillo
final Defense
Appendix F: Budget Proposal
Multiplying Total Cost

Budget Category Unit Cost
Factor (Php)
1. Personnel Exact wage
1. Statistician 1,200 php 1,200 php
Subtotal 1,200 php
Cost per Number load

2. Load for Internet
Week per week
Data/ Internet 1/every

430/ week 430 php
Connection member
Subtotal 430 php
Grand Total Php1,630

CURRICULUM VITAE
PROFILE OF THE STUDENT:

I. Personal Background
Name: Jean Karlo C. Cabalbag
Nickname: Karlo
Date of Birth: November 4, 1999
Age: 21 years old
Place of Birth Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Home Address: #597, Sumbillo St. Mayapyap Sur, Cabanatuan City,
Nueva Ecija
Gender: Male
Citizenship: Filipino
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
II. Family Background
Father’s Name: Leonario N. Cabalbag
Mother’s Name: Flocerfida C. Cabalbag
Language: English, Tagalog
Educational
School School Year
Attainment
Mayapyap Elementary School Mayapyap Sur,
Primary 2009-2012
Cabanatuan City, N.E
Mayapyap National High School
(Junior High School) 2012-2016
Secondary
PHINMA - Araullo University 2016-2018
(Senior High School)
Nueva Ecija University of Science and
Tertiary 2018-Present
Technology
CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Caitlin E. Calderon
Nickname: Keyt and ketket
Date of Birth: March 03, 2000
Age: 20 years old
Place of Birth Conception Maternity Clinic Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija
Home Address: Purok 3 Brgy. Sta. Lucia Young Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija
Gender: Female
Father’s Name: Marbien C. Calderon
Mother’s Name: Nilda E. Calderon
Educational
School School Year
Attainment
Primary Zaragoza Central School 2009-2012
Vincentian Catholic Academy
Secondary
Vincentian Catholic Academy 2016-2018
Nueva Ecija University of Science and
Tertiary 2018-Present
Technology
CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Benigno C. Cucal Jr.
Nickname: Ben/Jacko
Date of Birth: September 10, 1999
Age: 21 years old
Place of Birth Cabanatuan Ccity, Nueva Ecija
Home Address: # 426 Barangay Sagaba, Sto. Domingo, Nueva Ecija
Gender: Male
Religion: Born Again
II.Family Background
Father’s Name: Benigno G. Cucal Sr.
Mother’s Name: Mila C. Cucal
Educational
School School Year
Attainment
Primary Villa Juan Elementary School 2009-2012
Julia Ortiz Luis National High School

Secondary
La Fortuna College 2016-2018
(Senior High
School)
Tertiary Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology 2018-Present
CURRICULUM VITAE

I.Personal Background
Name: Kimberly P. Del Castillo
Nickname: Kim
Date of Birth: June 13, 2000
Age: 20 years old
Home Address: Purok 4, Kalikid Sur, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Gender: Female
Father’s Name: Ariel M. Del Castillo
Mother’s Name: Barbara P. Del Castillo
Educational School
School
Attainment Year
Primary Luis o Renon Memorial School 2009-2012
Good Samaritan Colleges
Secondary
Good Samaritan Colleges 2016-2018
2018-
Tertiary Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology
Present
CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Arrianne Cecille U.
Gutierrez
Nickname: Arrianne
Date of Birth: January,14,2000
Age: 20 years old
Home Address: #503 St. Nicholas Subdivision, Bantug Norte,
Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Gender: Female
Father’s Name: Arnel C. Gutierrez
Mother’s Name: Abegay U. Gutierrez
Educational
School School Year
Attainment
Primary Good Samaritan Colleges 2011-2012
Wesleyan University-Philippinesl
2012-2016
(Junior High School)
Secondary
Wesleyan University-Philippines
2016-2018

CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Josiephine B. Sacdal
Nickname: Joy
Date of Birth: December 2, 1999
Age: 21 years old
Home Address: 053 Acacia St. Balite Cabanatuan City
Gender: Female
Religion: Iemelif
Father’s Name: Isaac S. Sacdal
Mother’s Name: Angelina B. Sacdal
Educational
School School Year
Attainment
Primary Balite Elementary School 2011-2012
Mayapyap National High School

2012-2016
(Junior High School)
Secondary
PHINMA - Araullo University
2016-2018

DOCUMENTATION
Exchanging of ideas before the Proposal Proposal Defense (February 23, 2021)
Defense
Pilot Testing Tabulation Pilot Testing Tabulation (checking for

errors)
Exchanging of Ideas before the data Exchanging of Ideas before the data
gathering gathering
Division of Assignments for Chapter IV

and V
Discussion of Research Adviser’s Preparation for Final Defense

Certification
Exchanging of ideas via chat messenger Exchanging of ideas via chat messenger
Before Final Defense (May 21, 2021) After Final Defense (May 21, 2021)

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Republic of the Philippines

NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

“THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD PETS AS PERCEIVED BY THE

Presented to the Faculty of College of Nursing,

NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

JEAN KARLO C. CABALBAG

BENIGNO C. CUCAL JR.

KIMBERLY P. DEL CASTILLO

ARRIANNE CECILLE U. GUTIERREZ

This thesis entitled “THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF PETS AS PERCEIVED BY

Sevilla C. Guinto, MAN, RN

RESEARCH EXAMINING COMMITTEE

DR. JEAN N. GUILLASPER, RN

ZUZETTE B. CATABONA, MAN, RN CHEENA B. MALLARI, MAN, RN, LPT

MRS. EMILY A. FLORES, MAN, RN

Dr. Jean N. Guillasper, FRIEdr, FRI(Rs)

The researchers would like to express their deep appreciation of indebtedness to

To the hard-working Dr. Yolanda D. Pangilinan, the Dean of the College of

forms online despite their busy schedules.

To our faculty panel of evaluator Ma'am Emily A. Flores, moderator/facilitator

supported, and encouraged us not to give up for us to finish this study.

sincerely appreciated and gratefully acknowledged. However, we are humbly dedicating

recommendations to finish this study.

you so much! You deserved to be thanking for.

CHAPTER I: PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

Statement of the Problem......................................................................................12

Objectives of the Study..........................................................................................12

Scope, Limitations and Deliminations of the Study.............................................15

Significance of the Study.......................................................................................15

Theoretical and Conceptaul Framework of the Study...........................................16

CHAPTER II: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Related Literature and Studies in Thematic Format..........................................25

Therapeutic Effect Defined...........................................................................25

Mental Health Benefits of Having Dogs on College Campuses...................25

Animals as a Stress Reducer.........................................................................30

Disadvantages of Having Household Pets at Home......................................32

The Relevance of Surveyed Literature and Studies.............................................33

Pet Preferences in terms of Age and Sex......................................................33

Pet Preferences in the USA and Philippines.................................................34

Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Behavioral Effects...........................................34

Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Emotional Effects............................................35

Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Cognitive Effects.............................................35

Therapeutic Effects of Pets: Physical Effects...............................................36

CHAPTER III: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Samples and Sampling Design..............................................................................39

Reliability and Validity.........................................................................................40

Construction and Administration of Instrument...................................................40

Statistical Treatment of Data.................................................................................41

CHAPTER IV: PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF

I. The Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents.........................................45

II. The Type of Household Pets............................................................................48

III. Therapeutic Effects of Pets.............................................................................49

3.1. Behavioral Effects..................................................................................50

3.2. Emotional Effects...................................................................................53

3.3. Cognitive effects....................................................................................58

3.4. Physical Effects......................................................................................61

Summary of Overall Categories....................................................................65

4.1. Socio-Demographic Profile Vs. Therapeutic Effect..............................66

4.2. Type of Pet Vs. Therapeutic Effect........................................................68

CHAPTER V: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS