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What are the benefits of having a useful pet

By Bunnings Magazine /

A young child in a blue dress feeds five chickens from a bowl in a garden, surrounded by plants.

Beyond their lovable faces and companionship, domestic animals contribute unexpected benefits to the household.


Multiple studies have shown that the benefits of having a pet is that they can be wonderful for both our mental and physical health.

What are the benefits of having a useful pet?

Their ability to boost our mood, lower our blood pressure, love unconditionally and be adorably cute is reason enough to bring a pet into your life – but your furry or feathered friend can also contribute around the home. From security to garden helpers, there are many unique advantages pets can offer, including:

  • Bringing happiness and emotional comfort;
  • Ensuring your food scraps don’t go to waste; and
  • Pets such as goats and sheep can act as a lawnmower and provide you with fertiliser for your plants.

The benefits of owning a dog

Dogs started as our hunting partners and protectors more than 14,000 years ago* and continue to provide loyal friendship. They help us recover from illness through animal-assisted therapy, guide blind people, support law enforcement and provide emotional support, even if they aren’t specifically trained for that role. And you don’t need a doorbell if you have a dog; they alert you when something out of the ordinary happens, protecting you and often other pets you may have.

The benefits of owning chickens

Being greeted by happy chooks running towards you in anticipation of their morning treats is a wonderful way to begin the day, says Angus Jones from Poultry Australia. “Every chicken has a unique personality. Some are instinctively more inquisitive, energetic, shy or demanding of attention,” he says. “Even people who don’t intend to become attached to their chooks usually end up naming at least a few!” They are also one of the most sustainable pets you can have, reducing the environmental impact of waste by eating food scraps and creating a natural source of fertiliser for your garden. Plus you get your own supply of fresh eggs. Guinea fowl, on the other hand, are less inclined to be your friend, but they do keep snakes and rats away!

Why goats are a great pet

If you’re on an acreage, pygmy goats are clever little creatures that can be taught tricks and skills, says Carolyn Hamilton from the National Pygmy Goat Association of Australia. “They have a naturally docile temperament and the more attention you give them, the more they give back,” she says. “They are under 45cm tall and come in a range of unbelievable colours.” A small flock of pygmy goats will also help keep the grass down. 

Why do sheep make great pets?

Another way to avoid mowing is to have sheep. Sheep breeder Sue Curliss of Sugar Gum Farm in Victoria says they make great pets and the smaller breeds, such as the Babydoll, are easy to handle. “They are inquisitive, intelligent animals who love following you around,” she says. “They can also be halter trained and taken for walks.” In return for your care and a couple of acres, you receive lawnmowing, fertiliser already in pellet form and wool you can either spin or use as mulch. And the straw from their shelter also provides great mulch for garden beds.

Three white sheep stand in a sunny field with a fence in the background.

Keep in mind…

  • No toy is indestructible – always supervise your pet with new toys, inspect toys regularly and remove if they become damaged or unsafe.
  • Check with your local authority which animals are permitted to be kept as pets in your area.

Thinking of getting some chooks?

Check out our article on what you need to know about getting a chicken coop.



Photo credit: Getty Images and Adobe Stock.

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.