I have a history of depression, and have been advised to get a pet. Can you confirm that this would be beneficial?

CAROL SMILLIE

Who advised you? Do they own a pet? And what kind of pet did they specify? If this advice has come from a counsellor or GP, it's worth listening to; if it's just wise words from a friend, then discuss it with your doctor or therapist first. You should also consider how your condition might affect whatever animal you choose.

I don't have personal experience of depression, but I understand that there can be days when sufferers can barely make it out of bed, let alone out of the house to walk a dog. If your depression is serious and debilitating, choose a pet that needs less attention; remember that animals never have off days.

If your depression is mild, you could think about either a dog or cat. Nurturing something else and considering its needs will help to shift your focus away from your illness. Stroking animals is also therapeutic, so make sure you choose a tactile animal that likes human beings.

Pet shop owners say that rats are greatly underrated. They are very clean and can be trained; something that's fun and a focus for the time you spend together. They also are diurnal, so you'll see them during the day.

But first you should think about a safety net, perhaps asking a family member if he or she will help out on bad days. Put that into place before you commit.

Another idea is to volunteer to work with animals. This would allow you to test the water first, and to meet people and gain the experience and skills you'll need to look after a pet.

The TV presenter Carol Smillie lives in Glasgow with her husband and three children. She supports the University of Glasgow's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

EMMA MAGNUS

Pets have been shown to have a marked effect on human psychology and wellbeing. Boris Levinson, a psychologist in New York, was the first person to use animals alongside therapy. In 1962 he discovered that he made significant progress during the treatment of a disturbed child if he made sure that his dog was present during the sessions.

In 2003 research at the University of Pennsylvania showed that stroke victims had a greater chance of survival if they owned a pet, as their blood pressure was lower than non-owners.

Some mental health units also have on-site pets. A ward hamster looked after by staff and patients at Huntercombe Hospital, in Roehampton, South London, has been a great success. Pets are also being used more and more as part of a range of alternative therapies for depression. The companionship, physical contact, interaction, responsibility and focus that a pet brings to daily life helps to take your mind off your illness.

There is no evidence about which type of pet brings the most relief. It could be a fish, rat, cat, dog or bird; the important thing is that you become involved and engaged in its life.

A dog is the ideal companion, but only if you've owned one before. If not, you must take the time to find the right pet for you or you could end up getting a dog that is too bouncy or a cat that wants to be outside all the time.

Think, too, about the commitment of keeping an animal. For many people, having a dog is a real lifesaver, as it forces them to leave their homes and interact with others. But you may not be able to cope with this.

How about a cat? They can be very affectionate (particularly the oriental breeds such as Burmese and Siamese) and they are more independent than dogs, which puts less pressure on their owners. If you're interested, contact your local rescue centre to see if they have any older cats looking for homes. These will already be house-trained, saving you the stress of raising a kitten. Good luck!

Emma has a masters degree in applied animal behaviour and animal welfare. She is the author of How to Have a Relaxed Rabbit (Pet Behaviour Centre, £3.50)

Have you any top tips for perfect pets? Send them to body&soul@thetimes.co.uk

WHAT YOU NEED

CHECK IT

Society for Companion Animal Studies, dedicated to understanding how animals can improve quality of life; scas.org.uk

READ IT

In the Company of Animals: A Study of Human-Animal Relationships, James Serpeli (Cambridge Press, £16.99)

BUY IT

Make sure that your dog or cat stays shiny and glossy with a Grooming Glove, pets2home.co.uk , £3.15