A Companion Animal is considered to be an effective means of
lowering blood pressure, heart-rate, and general feelings of anxiety. The
most popular companion animals (or "pets" as they are commonly
called) are mammals with soft fur that the owner can stroke. However, any
animal that can
be caught and caged is fair game to be made into a companion.
Some people prefer non-mammalian pets, such as fish or turtles, which
demand less care. Others opt for the rare and exotic.
Companion animals have long been a fixture in the nuclear family
unit. While the domesticated dog (Canis lupus familiaris) was once the most common
pet, the domesticated cat (felis catus) has supplanted the dog in many
homes. This is probably the result of human overpopulation, and the
necessary down-sizing of all aspects of modern life. Plus, you can get away
with ignoring a cat for longer periods of time.
Although some companion animals may be found as ingredients in
chow mein, chimichanga, or "game" pie; many are chained (or otherwise
imprisoned), kept in steel cages in humane hostels (for up to one
week1), allowed to roam wild as free-range pets, or simply
ignored.
1 See chow mein, chimichanga and game pie.
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