The relationship between humans and their pets has long fascinated researchers, particularly in exploring how attachment varies according to the type of pet. Cats and dogs exhibit unique behavioral and social traits that influence the dynamics of human–pet relationships. Moreover, specific human characteristics have been found to affect this attachment. Our study examines the human factors that influence pet attachment among cat and dog owners in the Basque Country, located in northern Spain. By investigating these elements, our research aims to enhance the understanding of how human factors shape the human–animal bond. The study included a total of 202 participants, of whom 66.8% were dog owners, and 74.8% identified as women, with ages ranging from 18 to 74 years. Consistent with many previous studies, our results indicate that attachment is generally stronger with dogs compared to cats and that owner’s characteristics such as being female, younger, not living with children, and the amount of time spent with pets on weekends are linked to stronger attachments to pets.

Mental well-being is a multifaceted concept that reflects emotional stability, psychological resilience and social connectedness. This study examines how demographic factors, perceived loneliness, and social support influence mental well-being in Spain. Participants were surveyed online and provided personal information along with responses to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS), and the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS). Our findings support previous research on mental well-being in Spain and again show significant associations between income, loneliness, social support and overall mental health. In particular, perceived loneliness was found to be a strong predictor of mental well-being. Furthermore, income and social support were found to partially mediate the relationship between loneliness and mental well-being. These findings highlight the critical role of social connections and financial stability in promoting mental health. Overall, this research contributes to the growing understanding of the factors influencing mental well-being and provides valuable insights for improving mental health outcomes.