In an examination of the relationship between pets and people, Barrie Gunter illustrates the many psychological benefits that animal companionship can bestow upon us; providing security for the anxious, companionship for the lonely and status symbols for the image conscious.

This book examines the phenomenon of pet ownership and the importance placed upon this strange relationship by people in modern society.

Barrie Gunter is the author of Pets and People: The Psychology of Pet Ownership, published by Wiley.