Anyone who has a pet knows how special that relationship can be. Human beings have been keeping animals as pets for thousands of years. Animals were first kept for food and clothing, but eventually they were also kept for companionship. Today most pet owners consider their pet a member of the family. As of 2012, sixty-two percent of American households reported having pets. Scientists are still trying to understand how and why humans developed their unique bond to animals. Today there are many reasons why people keep pets. There are also many benefits of pet ownership.

**Companionship**

Few things improve a bad day like having an enthusiastic dog or cat greet you when you walk in the door. Many people believe that their pets can sense when they are ill or in a bad mood. People sometimes have pets to help prevent loneliness. Studies have linked pet ownership with alleviation of depression symptoms. Pets can even help their owners become more sociable.

**Health and Wellbeing**

People sometimes keep pets to help relieve stress. There is some research to back this up. Several studies have shown a connection between pet ownership and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can lead to lower risk of heart disease. People who own pets of any kind are generally more active than those who do not have pets. Dog owners in particular benefit from the exercise they get from daily dog walks. Some research has even suggested a link between pet ownership and longer life expectancy.

**Children and Pets**

Children who are raised with pets in the home have been found to have fewer allergies and stronger immune systems than those without pets. Caring for a pet teaches children about nurturing and empathy, as well as responsibility. Research suggests that children with pets develop stronger social skills than those without.

**Security**

In addition to the health and companionship benefits that pets provide, they can also provide safety and security. Many people own dogs in order to protect their homes and businesses. Even a small barking dog can be a deterrent to trespassers.

Whether it is a dog, goldfish, or rabbit, there are so many ways that pets can enhance the lives of their human families. Researchers are continuing to study all the ways in which pets can improve the lives of their owners. Ask any pet parent and they will tell you that they wouldn’t trade their special relationship for anything.