Pet

Pet

A pet is an animal kept primarily for a person's company or entertainment rather than as a working animal, livestock, or laboratory animal. Popular pets are often considered to have attractive appearances, intelligence and relatable personalities, but some pets may be taken in on an altruistic basis and accepted by the owner regardless of these characteristics.

History

The keeping of pets has been practiced from prehistoric times to the present day. The earliest evidence of pet keeping dates back to the Neolithic era. Dogs were the first pets, followed by cats and then birds and other small mammals. In the 19th and 20th centuries, pets were considered a status symbol.

Types of pets

Pets can be classified by the type of animal:

• Dogs - Dogs are often called "man's best friend" because they are kept as domestic pets and are usually loyal and friendly to humans.
• Cats - Cats are often kept as pets for their companionship and their ability to hunt vermin.
• Birds - Birds are often kept as pets for their beauty and the complexity of their songs.
• Fish - Fish are often kept as pets for their beauty and the tranquility they provide.
• Reptiles - Reptiles are often kept as pets for their unique appearance and behavior.
• Small mammals - Small mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters are often kept as pets for their cute appearances and playful personalities.

Benefits of keeping pets

Pets can provide their owners with several health benefits. Pets can provide companionship to people who are living alone or elderly adults who do not have adequate social interaction with other people. Having a pet may help people achieve health goals, such as lowered blood pressure, or mental goals, such as decreased stress.

See also

• Animal welfare
• Animal rights
• Pet adoption
• Pet insurance

External links

• ASPCA - American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
• Humane Society of the United States

Pet Resources
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