Three minutes may not sound like much, but spending that time with a miniature horse or donkey could help you feel calmer. A study recently published in Scientific Reports found that a brief interaction with the animals was linked to lower levels of anxiety, sadness, and loneliness.

Researchers followed 61 adolescents at an animal behavior summer program in California. Each participant spent three minutes with miniature horses and donkeys. Some gently stroked the animals’ backs, while others scratched their necks. Before and after the interaction, the teens rated emotions including anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and calmness.

After the session, participants reported feeling less anxious, sad, and lonely and more calm. The way they touched the animals also appeared to affect the animals’ behavior. Miniature horses and donkeys were less likely to walk away when teens scratched their necks. They also showed more of a small lip movement associated with positive interactions.

The findings add to growing interest in animal-assisted therapy. Psychologists already work with animals in schools, hospitals, and counseling settings, where they may help reduce stress and encourage people to open up. Still, animals are only one part of the process and do not replace professional care.

Researchers describe the interaction as a two-way relationship because human behavior may influence an animal’s response, which could then affect the person. However, the limitations of the study, including its relatively small participant pool, short length, and lack of a control group, make it unclear whether the therapeutic effects last over time.