For many, mental health can not only be a challenge in itself, but can oftentimes be a lonely battle. For PAWS NY, a nonprofit pet organization, pets are not just great companions, but are powerful healing aids.

To highlight the mental health benefits pets can provide, PAWS NY and agency Klick Health launched a heart-tugging short film, The Bridge, focused on the importance of having a pet as a companion during difficult times.

The animated spot is part of PAWS NY’s larger initiative to help New Yorkers overcome physical and financial pet care challenges to maintain the life-saving bond between humans and their animal companions.