THE health benefits of animal companionship were highlighted on World Mental Health Day this week.

A study commissioned last year by pet food company Butcher’s Pet Care found that dog owners are fitter and healthier than those without canine companions, with 73 per cent saying they love the fact they get so much exercise looking after dogs.

There are many mental health benefits that come from spending time with animals and pets. It has been found to lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in bodies.

However, you do not have to be a pet owner to benefit from spending time with animals, you could become a home and pet sitter instead which is an increasingly popular form of employment for retired people.

Homesitters tend to be fit and active people in their 50s, 60s and 70s who are employed to stay in people’s homes while they are away and look after their pets. This gives all the benefits of spending time with animals with none of the long-term responsibility.

Martin and Kristine Bell decided to start homesitting when they lost their beloved West Highland Terrier. While they love animals, they decided not to get another dog so becoming homesitters seemed a good compromise.

Martin said: “There’s no better way of spending an evening than with a dog on your knee or by your feet to stroke while you’re reading, it gives us a great feeling of contentment.”

Homesitters is currently recruiting. To find out more visit www.homesitters.co.uk