by Matt Bird

Created on: June 01, 2009

The reasons for owning a pet are surprisingly diverse. Everybody has their own motivations for seeking out furry companionship, and so this list could potentially include as many entries as there are human living on our little planet.

For the sake of simplicity, however, I'll try and narrow it down a little bit and avoid carrying on for millions of pages. Here's a list of some general reasons why people end up buying a pet in the first place. Don't be surprised if one or more applies to you.

1.) Companionship. Pretty simple, and possibly the most popular reason for getting a pet. Either a family of one needs another body to share the days with or a group of many is sick of one another and need something else to occupy their time. Pets give you the attention you crave when everybody else in the world seems hellbent on ignoring you, and can for some people be the main reason they want to get home after a long day of work.

2.) A gift for children. Not every adult out there likes pets. Many can't resist the pleading requests of their children, however, and so will bow to incessant begging. Funnily enough these same parents usually end up caring for the pet, and the child reaps all the entertaining benefits of the relationship.

3.) Security. This is especially true for single people who are nervous about living on their own. A sturdy dog is often much better than any security system in driving away thieves, and their very presence may be enough to dissuade problems in the first place. Dogs are especially good if you're nervous walking around in the evening, as, again, most would-be troublemakers won't try anything if you've got a big canine at your side.

4.) For exercise. Many bigger pets need to get outside and stretch their legs, and in doing so drive their owners out for a bit of much-needed fresh air.

5.) To breed them. Not as many people go down this route, but professional breeders can make a lot of money breeding their pets with one another and selling off the progeny to buyers looking for above-average results.

6.) For relieving stress. Your job may be absolutely brutal, but you'll probably forget all about it the moment you step in your house and find your cat wrapping around your legs, purring like crazy and looking for attention. There's something therapeutic about a loving pet's presence that can calm any amount of tension raging in your brain.

7.) And, loastly, as a conversation piece. This is especially true of caged of tanked animals. Some pets fit well into the decor of a house or an apartment, and look great for parties. Giant fish tanks are some of the most elegant fixtures you can ask for in a home, especially if they're stocked with exotic fish.

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