- This page is about domestic animals. For several meanings of the acronym PET, see PET. For the comedy tv series see Pets (tv programme).
A picture of a man with a domesticated dog
A pet is an animal that is kept (mostly by humans) for companionship and enjoyment, as opposed to livestock, which are kept for economic reasons. The most popular are noted for their loyal or playful characteristics or their attractive appearance or song.
The term "pet" may also be applied to humans, usually in an endearing way by a lover, significant other, or partner. Calling another person a pet, though, can just as easily be considered an insult (see "plaything").
While in theory one could keep any animal as a pet, in practice a small number of species of mammals, especially dogs and cats, and other animals such as birds have dominated the pet scene for a very long time. Fish have joined them more recently. Many of these are domesticated while others, often considered novelty pets, are not. With the exception of tortoises, iguanas and non-venomous snakes, few reptiles and amphibians make good pets.
The glofish, a genetically modified zebrafish with a bright red fluorescent color is the first genetically modified (GM) animal to be engineered as a pet.
Pets can provide their owners with many health benefits. The keeping of pets has been shown to help remove stress. Walking a dog can also provide its owner (as well as the dog!) with exercise, fresh air, and the opportunity for social interaction.
A pet can be acquired from a pet store, an animal shelter, a breeder, and sometimes from people who have too many due to births. See also Dog adoption.
Sometimes people treat their pets like they are children, especially when the people do not have children or their children are grown up.
Some animal welfare organisations have proposed that the term "companion animal" be used instead of "pet".
The captive gorilla Koko is one of few examples of a non-human animal which has had a pet. Koko's first pet was a kitten named All Ball.
Common Pet species
Mammals
Birds
Reptiles
Amphibians
Fish
See: Aquarium
Arthropods
Mollusks
Rocks
- Pet rocks (a type of toy treated as an actual pet)
See also
External link
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