Many research studies have confirmed the positive effects of keeping pets. Indeed, health professionals increasingly recognize their value in treating mental and physical conditions (McNicholas et al., 2005).Pets offer companionship and so much more.Many people experiencing mental health problems report that the combination of caring for animals and the unconditional love they receive back is life changing, improving their mental wellbeing and their quality of life (Robinson, 2020).When we think of our ancestors’ behavior, such connections are to be expected.Humans have been keeping pets and building working relationships with animals for well over 10,000 years (Barras, 2018; Page, 2020).
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