Owning a pet brings with it the responsibility to care for the pet appropriately, take it to the vets when necessary, feed it the food it needs to keep healthy and exercise or play with it regularly. This care has been shown to have a positive effect on the owners’ mental health and wellbeing.

Owning a dog is a good way to improve your own exercise regime as dogs need walking regularly to keep them fit and healthy so at the same time you are increasing your own calorie burning activity. Some dog breeds do not need to walk for hours but others will need at least an hours walk a day so before buying a dog do your research to find out the best breed for you and your circumstances.

Elderly people often find that owning a pet gives them the company that they may miss if they are housebound or find it difficult to get out much. In these cases, a cat is probably a better pet to have as there is no need to worry about walking it. Having a cat curled up on your lap to stroke is a lovely

Soothing experience which brings comfort to many people in these circumstances.