For as long as humans have walked the earth, we have shared our lives with animals. This bond between species is deeply rooted in our history, spanning thousands of years. Today, pets are an integral part of our lives, offering companionship, emotional support, and even physical benefits. But why have we always felt the need to keep pets, and how has this relationship evolved over time?
The domestication of animals can be traced back over 15,000 years, beginning with the dog (Larson et al., 2012). Wolves, once feared predators, gradually became allies to humans as they scavenged near early human settlements, leading to a mutually beneficial relationship. Over time, selective breeding shaped these animals into the diverse range of dog breeds we see today. Similarly, cats, often associated with ancient Egypt, were first domesticated around 9,000 years ago in the Near East, likely for their role in controlling rodent populations (Driscoll et al., 2009). Beyond dogs and cats, other animals such as horses, birds, and even fish have found their way into our homes and hearts.
Historically, animals served practical roles. Dogs aided in hunting and protection, cats controlled pests, and horses provided transport. However, our relationship with pets has shifted significantly in modern society. Many animals are no longer kept for their utilitarian value but rather for companionship and emotional well-being. Research has shown that pets can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve mental health (McNicholas et al., 2005). Some people also form deep psychological attachments to their pets, finding in them a sense of unconditional love, security, and emotional stability. Attachment theory suggests that individuals who struggle with human relationships may form strong bonds with animals, as pets offer companionship without the complexities of human interaction (Zilcha-Mano et al., 2012). In a world that can often feel isolating, pets provide a consistent source of comfort and reassurance, fulfilling fundamental psychological needs.
Despite our deep-rooted bond with animals, education on pet care is often overlooked. Many people acquire pets without fully understanding their needs, leading to issues such as behavioural problems, neglect, and even abandonment. This is why education in pet care, behaviour, and welfare is crucial. Understanding the species-specific needs of pets ensures they lead healthy, happy lives and that their human companions develop rewarding relationships with them.
At Pet Sense College, we are committed to providing high-quality education on pet behaviour, training, and welfare. Our courses are designed for pet owners, professionals, and aspiring animal care specialists who want to deepen their understanding of the animals they love. By educating ourselves, we can improve the lives of pets and foster a society that values responsible pet ownership.
The human-animal bond is one of the most enduring and meaningful relationships in our history. As our understanding of animal welfare and behaviour evolves, so too should our commitment to responsible pet care. Education is the key to ensuring that this relationship continues to thrive, benefiting both humans and their beloved companions.
References
Driscoll, C.A., Macdonald, D.W. & O’Brien, S.J., 2009. From wild animals to domestic pets, an evolutionary view of domestication. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 106(Supplement 1), pp.9971-9978.
Larson, G., Karlsson, E.K., Perri, A., Webster, M.T., Ho, S.Y.W., Peters, J., Stahl, P.W., Piper, P.J., Lingaas, F., Fredholm, M. and Comstock, K.E., 2012. Rethinking dog domestication by integrating genetics, archaeology, and biogeography. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(23), pp.8878-8883.
McNicholas, J., Gilbey, A., Rennie, A., Ahmedzai, S., Dono, J.A. and Ormerod, E., 2005. Pet ownership and human health: a brief review of evidence and issues. BMJ, 331(7527), pp.1252-1254.
Zilcha-Mano, S., Mikulincer, M. and Shaver, P.R., 2012. Pets as safe havens and secure bases: The moderating role of pet attachment orientations. Journal of Research in Personality, 46(5), pp.571-580.
