Soothing sight of cats and dogs

LOOKING at pictures of a pet could help beat anxiety and depression.

Psychologists at the University of Reading created an online gallery – projectsoothe.com – using pictures taken by members of the public with the aim of inducing relaxation.

People visiting the site are encouraged to spend a few minutes looking through them every day, and give feedback on what works. The most popular images featured a pet cat or dog, as well as a tranquil lake and home-cooked meal.

Early studies have shown that looking at 25 such images a day can reduce anxiety and emotional distress.

Study co-author Professor Stella Chan, who has worked with brain-injury patients, said: ‘We thought it would be a good idea to give people photographs. We know that images have a very powerful therapeutic impact.’