Ms Doelle says she has also received more requests from people wishing to give up their pets. “It’s quite a sad day when people have to make a choice of either feeding their animals or their children. For some people, sadly, it has got to that situation.” Nile goose, a favourite household pet of the ancient Egyptians, may have served such a purpose. The herding and guarding of livestock is another practical use of pets, in particular the dog. Over the centuries, many specialized breeds of dog have been developed to suit this purpose.

• Houston SPCA’s mission is to promote commitment to and respect for all animals and free them from suffering, abuse and exploitation.
• Typically, airlines require pet health certificates that are no older than 10 days, even if the receiving country accepts an older one.
• Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels than those without pets.
• Reptiles