Animals have always had a special influence on humans. For thousands of years, they have accompanied people and made life a little more pleasant. "I assert that the coexistence of humans and animals has a significant impact on our well-being and health," stated psychiatrist Aaron Katcher back in 1983. But why do animals have such a special influence on humans? Few topics are as under-researched as the human-animal symbiosis. Yet, the facts cannot be denied - animals have a positive effect on humans. Living with an animal lowers blood pressure, stabilizes circulation, and reduces stress. What has long been suspected was ultimately confirmed by a study with heart attack patients conducted by sociologist Eva Friedmann: animals awaken the spirits of life.