There is some evidence that pets can facilitate social interaction. Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Leslie Irvine has focused her attention on pets of the homeless population. Her studies of pet ownership among the homeless found that many modify their life activities for fear of losing their pets. Additionally, many refuse to house in shelters if their pet is not allowed to stay with them.
- This includes 7 million dogs, 7.5 million cats, 16 million fish, 12 million birds, and 10 million snakes.
- Rescue groups try to find suitable homes for unwanted or abandoned dogs, cats, and other pets, many taken from shelters where they would otherwise have been euthanized.
- However, such findings have not been consistent as other studies reported zero or even negative effects of pet ownership on physical and mental health.
- Other pets may be bred for racing or other competitive sports, around which sizable industries have been built.
- Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.
- If any shelter or rescue animal exhibits aggressive behavior, it is typically euthanized rather than offered for adoption.
Do you live in a small apartment or a large house with a backyard? This will greatly determine the size of the animal best suited to your home. For instance, a cat or caged animal may be more suitable to apartment living than a large Pets News dog. Playing and exercising with a dog or cat can help a child with learning disorders stay alert and attentive throughout the day. It can also be a great antidote to stress and frustration caused by the learning disability.
Benefits of Adopting a Senior Pet
Kids who are emotionally attached to their pets are better able to build relationships with other people. Research at the University of California at Davis concluded that Alzheimer’s patients suffer less stress and have fewer anxious outbursts if there is a dog or cat in the home. The companionship of an animal can offer comfort, help ease anxiety, and build self-confidence for people anxious about going out into the world. Because pets tend to live in the moment—they don’t worry about what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow—they can help you become more mindful and appreciate the joy of the present. Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels than those without pets. To get the latest on pet adoption and pet care, sign up to hear from us.
Ancient history
A study by the National Institute of Health found that people who owned dogs were less likely to die as a result of a heart attack than those who did not own one. There is some evidence that pets may have a therapeutic effect in dementia cases. Other studies have shown that for the elderly, good health may be a requirement for having a pet, and not a result.
Generally, wild animals are recognized as not suitable to keep as pets, and this practice is completely banned in many places. In other areas, certain species are allowed to be kept, and it is usually required for the owner to obtain a permit. It is considered animal cruelty by some, as most often, wild animals require precise and constant care that is very difficult to meet in captive conditions.