Did you know kittens aren’t only adorable, they can actually be good for your health? If you’re not allergic, that is.
In her research, Darling examines companionship, security, and exercise, as well as increases in self-worth and decreases in feelings of loneliness. She and her research partners have found that pets promote social interaction and trust, and, she says, can even “catalyse civic engagement.” She says litters of strays like the ones she’s holding here arrived often and were popular with people looking to adopt a pet. Kittens grow into cats, of course, and not everyone can handle the responsibilities of pet ownership. This is why Darling advises those who are considering adoption to “learn about your animals so you can give them what they need. Loving them is only part of the equation, although a significant part.
Darling has had many furry friends of her own over the years. “I’ve had several cats, four dogs and one horse,” she says. “I am down to only one dog at the moment, a 17-month-old fawn Bouvier named Ombré. He makes me laugh every day.”
Important stuff