People have been living with animals for so many years, even since the ancient time. Some of them are even considered as spiritual sustenance or lifetime friends by the owners. In Russia, pets are just as common as in any other places in the world and the varieties are amazing too, considering the country has breeds of dogs that are very special and can only exclusively be found in Russia. But what domestic animals are common in Russia as pets? Here are 7 of them.

1. Cat

Just like in most part of the world, cat is a popular pet in Russia. Cat is a moderately sociable animal and can be moderately trained. In addition to the fact that cats are admirable, they have a positive effect on human health: when you pet a cat, your heart rate slows and your blood pressure decreases. Even broken bones fuse faster to the sound of purring. Amazing, right? Cats are also chosen by many Russians because they are perfect to live with in a small apartment which goes well with today’s people lifestyle.

2. Dog

This is the second most common pets in the world and also in Russia. Probably everyone ever dreamed of having a dog, at least in their childhood. The loyalty of a dog is already much proven, and a large number of activities with dogs – games, training tricks, evening or morning walks – are what some of people need to help them get out and socialize. Dogs can be amazing friends to humans. A variety of breeds allows the owner to choose the one that is most suitable for the living space, financial capabilities and the availability of free time. Dog owners are more active and less likely to experience anxiety and depression.

3. Rodents

These include hamsters, dzhungariki (also hamsters, but smaller), gerbils (a cross between a rat and a hamster), rats, mice (the satin breed, for example, are very beautiful), rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas – today in pet stores there are plenty to choose from. The life span of small rodents is usually only a couple of years. Guinea pigs, rabbits and chinchillas may live longer, but for various reasons rarely survive the age of 5–7 years.

The most affectionate of them are rats. The favorite place of these savvy animals is the shoulder of the owner. Rats are very attached to the owners with regular communication. Their gentleness can be surprising if they are raised right. This species are great for people who live in small spaces and don’t really fancy having to go out and about to walk or play aggressively with their pets.

4. Parrots

Russian love keeping birds at home, including lovebirds, corellas, as well as large parrots, cockatoo, and macaw. Most of them choose parrots because it is an independent pet – the parrots themselves can take care of their cleanliness and practically do not smell, and cleaning the cage should not be done too often. However, parrots need training –  the more attention you pay to the bird, the smarter it will be.

5. Water Species

In an aquarium you can put fish, snails, newts, frogs, turtles, shrimps and many more. With a good combination of circumstances (temperature, water composition, lighting) it will be enough to change the water and clean the aquarium only 2-3 times a month. In addition, the aquarium is a beautiful element of the interior. These types of animals are not noisy and most definitely won’t run around in the house, so they are perfect for people who want to keep their places neat and tidy but still need to have pets as companions at home. Guppies, zebrafish, gourami, and several species of simple catfish are relatively easy to keep. Fish and its companions are also great for families with allergies to fur or feather.

6. Exotic Animals

The animals included in this part are iguana, chameleon, snakes, and turtles. Reptiles are suitable for those who have limited space, but not limited finances. They are quite difficult to care for and are more suitable for those who want an exotic showcase rather than a friend. These animals will allow themselves to be stroked and scratched, but one should not hope for affection.

7. Ferrets, Raccoons, Foxes and other wild animals

These are extremely attractive animals, especially the domesticated foxes that are native to Russia. But still, they should not be considered fully domesticated as they naturally belong to the wilderness. Their behavior is less predictable; in the event of a pet’s disease, it is more difficult to find a qualified veterinarian to care for them.

Most of people in Russia believe that keeping a pet as a company at home would give them a lot of benefits like reducing stress and promoting the quality of life. Children love having cute pets because they love having friends to play with and warm, furry companions to cuddle. But the parents believe that pets would teach the children the sense of belonging, compassion, and responsibilities. Adults, though, choose pets based on their personalities. This is why snakes and iguanas can be chosen as lifetime companions by some people.

Some domestic animals (farm animals) bring immediate material benefits to humans, for example, as a source of food (milk, meat), materials (wool, skin). While some other animals (livestock and service animals) benefit the person by performing work functions (transportation of goods, security, etc.). The second large category is companion animals that take leisure, enjoyment and with whom you can communicate. For urban people, the concept of pet is more often associated with the second category. Many families that keep some animals at home would feel the comfort, calm, relieved from stress. From the 7 domestic animals that are common pets in Russia, which one do you have at home?