Pets are 'child-substitute' for 600,000 women

Posted : 18-12-2006

Pets take the place of a child for approximately 600,000 women in the UK, research has found, with 51 per cent saying they have a dog or cat for companionship.

Citing a survey by online insurance provider swiftcover.com, Halifax Today reports that women are more likely to be pet owners than men and 18 to 29-year-olds admitting they are the loneliest age group in the country.

Indeed, Penny Town from Barkisland had, until recently, ten Labradors living with her.

"They are my babies and I'd be lost without them," she told the paper.

"I can understand women who have a dog or cat instead of a child. It's a woman thing - we just want something to love and cherish."

And Elizabeth Ormerod, vet and chairman of the Society for Companion Animal Studies, says that pets can be fundamental to one's wellbeing and elevate neurotransmitters making us feel happier.

Those considering adding a pet to the family or getting one as a companion may benefit from purchasing pet insurance, which provides cover for veterinary bills or if the animal goes missing.

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