Are Pets The New Babies?

Lonely  women are turning to their pets for companionship, with many are treating their furry friend like a surrogate child.

A survey has revealed a need in women for puppy love over motherhood.

It showed that 18 to 29-year-olds were the loneliest group of people , with more than half of those who had owned a cat or a dog saying they did so for companionship.

Around 83% of female respondents who had owned pets said they saw their animal as part of the family.

The poll, carried out by online insurer swiftcover.com, also found that women were the biggest animal lovers, with 52% having owned a cat, compared with just 38% of men.

Half of women questioned had also owned a dog compared with just 39% of men.

 "It is surprising that so many women turn to buying pets as a form of 'baby substitute'.

"But with today's adults settling down later on in life as careers take priority, women are obviously turning to their pets to give them that something extra in their lives."

The survey also found that younger pet owners were more likely to splurge on their furry friends, with 21% confessing to pampering their cats or dogs.

Meanwhile, those in the 18 to 29-year-old age group were the most susceptible to High Street trends, with 18% splurging on fashion accessories such as designer dog collars.

Clinical psychologist and parenting experts,say keeping a pet could also be good for your mental and physical health.

"People today see the benefits of pets as companions and a source of comfort to family members; they're making pets part of the family.

"Spending time with your pet is also good for your health, as it reduces stress levels and blood pressure."

skynews