Can your childhood pet make you depressed?
Having a pet offers companionship, comfort and emotional security to millions; many love and cherish them like family members. This can in turn have positive effects on mental health. However, what happens if young pet owners witness neglect, cruelty or death? Close bonding is a clear positive for a family unit with a well-cared for pet. But many pets suffer terrible abuse in the presence of children. New research from Girardi & Pozzulo’s in Anthrozoös give a thought provoking new perspective on outcomes for children who love their pets