Article Owning a pet does not reduce symptoms of severe mental illness, study shows

[C C]

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/995315

INTRO: Living with and having a close bond with a companion animal does not necessarily lead to significant mental health improvements in people with a serious mental illness, say researchers.

A survey, conducted by the University of York, revealed that living with an animal - a dog, cat, fish or bird for example - did not improve wellbeing or reduce depression, anxiety or feelings of loneliness for owners with serious mental illness, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, compared to those who live without an animal.

The researchers, who followed up on an earlier survey conducted in 2021 on investigating aspects of animal ownership and mental health during COVID-19, say their findings counteract the increasingly held belief that animals boost mental health and wellbeing in all contexts... (MORE - details)

[confused2]

..living with an animal - a dog, cat, fish or bird for example

There's (for example) pit-bull terriers and rottweilers which are expensive to keep - probably not pleasant company in a small apartment without exercise outdoors and expensive to feed. Also a psychopathic pet will lead to actual social isolation. Do people with (for example) bipolar disorder or schizophrenia - choose 'sensible' pets? Could there being a 'choosing the wrong pet disorder', leading to people with the disorder choosing - for example - alligators, large snakes and rottweilers?

[Magical Realist]

Pets require a huge commitment from their owners, especially dogs. Every day rain or shine I hear people who live in my apts walking their big barking dogs faithfully. It's part of the "making sure they crap" ritual. I wouldn't own a dog unless i lived out in the country. I just think its cruel to limit a dogs life to living in a cooped up apt and a daily crapping session. But I guess its better than being euthanized.

[confused2]

Before I was married I lived with a hamster - actually several (one after the other because they don't live very long). Delightful company - you're never alone with a hamster. A house with a hamster in is much happier than one without. (Tips available on request).

[confused2]

I can't let this pass without..
When choosing a hamster you (probably) want one that is going to 'interact' rather than just live in a cage in your house. When you go to the place where hamsters come from and they get the hamsters out.. say "Good morning hamsters" (or anything else) - get a hamster that looks up at the sound of your voice - you won't regret it.