Scientists at the University of Washington have presented an effective way to fight against stress. Based on their study, contact with a dog or cat for ten minutes is enough to be in a good mood.

The scientists conducted an experiment with nearly 250 students. The volunteers were divided into four groups. The first group of students played with pets for 10 minutes every day, the second group followed to see how others caress animals, the third group looked at photos of dogs and cats, and the fourth group didn’t do any of the above.

Throughout the day, all the volunteers gave samples of spit for analysis. It turned out that the smallest samples of cortisol (stress hormone) were found in the spit of those who had had direct contact with the animals. Scientists say reduction of the level of this hormone is important since, over time, it can have a positive impact on a person’s mental and physical health.