A pet is an animal that lives with humans for pleasure rather than as work or food. The primary bond that distinguishes a pet from other economically useful animals is affection, often represented in myth and art. Examples range from the affection between Alexander the Great and his horse Bucephalus to the popularity of Lassie and other dog motion pictures.
Most people have a pet because they enjoy the companionship and unconditional love that pets provide. Pets teach children responsibility and can help reduce loneliness, depression, or anxiety. They can also teach empathy, respect for other living things, and the value of play. In addition to dogs and cats, many people have rodents, fish, reptiles, and birds as pets.
Some pets are homeless, having ended up in animal shelters due to the death or departure of their owner or because they were abandoned by irresponsible owners. Other animals are kept in captivity for their fur, skin, or meat. Some examples include horses, oxen, cattle, pigs, goats, and rabbits. The majority of animals that are kept as pets in North America are domestic, such as dogs and cats.
The care of a pet can be expensive, especially for larger animals that require veterinary attention and other medical services. It is important to decide whether you can afford the cost of a pet before acquiring one. It is also important to consider the time and energy that will be required to care for a pet.
Research has shown that owning a pet has many mental health benefits, including stress reduction and the feeling of being loved. Studies show that owning a pet can increase levels of oxytocin, which is known as the “love hormone,” and decrease cortisol, the hormone that increases blood pressure and suppresses immune system responses.
In a recent survey, 51% of pet owners reported that their pets help them to feel more at peace and relaxed. Several studies have found that spending time with pets reduces the levels of cortisol in the body, and may improve heart disease risk factors, such as high cholesterol.
Pets can also act as a social lubricant, encouraging their owners to engage in activities that might otherwise seem daunting or uncomfortable. People frequently chat with other pet owners on walks, in dog parks, or at pet stores. This can break the ice and encourage new friendships.
Children who grow up with pets are more likely to be kind and respectful toward other people, according to a number of studies. However, some children may be too rough with their pets, and should be referred to a child and adolescent psychiatrist for evaluation and treatment. Some kids may even abuse their pets, and this should be treated as a serious concern by the parents. If you are interested in having a pet, be sure to learn about the care and training that will be involved for your species of choice before deciding to adopt. In some cases, local laws or your housing arrangement may restrict the type of pet you can have.