Translation and Validation of the German Version of the Pet-related Stress Scale

Abstract

Pet related stress refers to the stress of living with a pet. The aim of this study was to translate and validate the German version of the Pet Related Stress Scale (PRSS G), and to establish reference values. Data were collected via an online quota based sample of 3,270 German adults aged 18�74 in January 2025. Reliability was assessed, and confirmatory factor analysis tested construct validity. Concurrent validity was examined through correlations with depressive symptoms, anxiety, perceived stress, life satisfaction, and loneliness. Reference values were provided for key sociodemographic groups. The PRSS G demonstrated strong to excellent reliability (Cronbach�s ??=?0.96 overall; 0.88�0.96 across subscales). The mean score was 1.9?�?0.8, with higher stress reported among younger individuals, those with lower education, and those with migration backgrounds. The original three factor structure (economic, psychological, social stress) was confirmed. Higher pet related stress correlated with more depressive (r?=?0.50) and anxiety (r?=?0.48) symptoms, greater perceived stress (r?=?0.35), lower life satisfaction (r?=?�0.13), and greater loneliness (r?=?0.30) The PRSS G is a reliable and valid tool for measuring pet related stress among German speaking adults. Further translations and validations are encouraged to enable cross country comparisons