Pets are a normal part of most Australian lives. While most pet owners understand the joys of companion animals, many are unaware of the physical and mental health benefits they bring.
Benefits of pet ownership
Pets provide fun, relaxation, happiness and unconditional love. Research also shows that they help facilitate child development and social support, and reduce loneliness and depression. They can also improve self-esteem and wellbeing.
There are also the physical benefits, such as the exercise you get when you walk your pet, for instance.
We recognise these benefits. Our animal management officers see themselves as carers when they’re called out to pick up lost animals. If we can identify lost the animal, we’ll return it to its grateful family.
While we’re bound by legislation in relation to pet management, we never lose sight of the value of our pets in our community.
For further information, visit the RSPCA's What are the benefits of companion animals to human health webpage.
