There are lots of positive aspects to owning a pet.

Mars Petcare, through The Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, has long since been recognised as one of the leaders in the field of Human Companion Animal Bond research. Scientific evidence is increasingly showing that pets are good for people. UK and international research demonstrates that interaction with pets can:

Reduce the number of visits made to the GP
Improve chances of survival after life-threatening illness
Reduce blood pressure and perceived levels of stress
Provide companionship and enhance social interactions
Provide purpose and fulfilment and enrich the quality of life for elderly, lonely and depressed people
Perform a vital role in the family unit regarding child development
Promote positive responses from those who are withdrawn, aggressive or mentally ill
Prevent re-offending in juvenile prisoners
Positively affect school attendance rates