Pets are important to many people. They can bring joy and companionship to a family and teach kids how to care for another living thing. They also give children a way to connect with nature and learn about the life cycle of animals, including reproduction, illness, death, and bereavement.
But taking on the responsibility of having a pet is not something to be undertaken lightly. It’s a long-term commitment that requires time, energy and money to make it work for both pets and people. It’s not for everyone and if you aren’t sure, fostering a pet or helping out a friend with theirs can help you see if having your own is right for you.
What is a pet?
A pet is an animal that has been intentionally raised by one or more human beings to live in close association with them. This association may be of a recreational, social or utilitarian nature, but it must not be dependent on the animal to earn its living or meet its natural needs.
There are a wide range of animals that can be kept as pets, from mammals like dogs and cats to reptiles and amphibians such as snakes and frogs. There are also birds, fish and other insects. Most pets are kept as companion animals but there are some species of wildlife that are kept in captivity for entertainment or scientific purposes.
In addition to giving companionship and affection, pets provide a number of health benefits for people. They can improve your mood and lower blood pressure, as well as reduce stress levels. They can also help you get exercise and lose weight by encouraging you to walk more and eat healthier.
Having a pet can also help you develop social skills, as most pets love to interact with their owners and other humans. This can be a great way to get young children used to being around other people and developing social confidence. It is important to supervise all interactions between children and animals, as some pets can be intimidated by rough play or become distressed if handled inappropriately. Children who display aggressive or violent behaviour towards pets should be seen by a child and adolescent psychiatrist.
When it comes to nutrition, the quality of your pets’ food is the most important factor in their health and wellbeing. They need a high-quality diet that is rich in nutrients, such as protein to build strong bones and muscles, and taurine for healthy eyes and heart. This is why we recommend choosing a high-quality brand such as Pedigree, which is a popular choice for dogs, or Fromm, which was ranked highest in our survey and has a reputation for being clean, healthy and affordable.
Be aware that some pet foods may contain chemicals that can be harmful to your pet and cause allergies or skin problems, and make sure to check the ingredients label before you buy. Choosing a natural food that is organic or has been certified by an organisation such as the Soil Association, can help to ensure that you are providing your pet with high-quality nutrients.