Interview

Personally, I believe having a pet can make a huge difference to a person's wellbeing. I currently have a cat, and she brings a lot of warmth and calm to our home. If I could choose another animal, I would probably go for a dog, because they are loyal companions and encourage you to be more active outdoors.

I have to say that owning a pet is a serious long-term commitment that many people underestimate. You are responsible for feeding, grooming, veterinary care, and providing daily attention — which takes both time and money. Unfortunately, not everyone thinks this through before getting an animal, which is why so many pets end up in shelters.

In my view, keeping wild animals as pets is generally not acceptable, regardless of how appealing it might seem. These animals have complex needs that simply cannot be met in a domestic environment, and removing them from the wild often causes serious harm to natural ecosystems. I think it is far better to support wildlife sanctuaries and observe animals in their natural habitat.

It is a complex issue, yet I think animal testing can sometimes be justified when it is strictly regulated and aimed at developing life-saving medical treatments where no alternative exists. However, using animals to test cosmetics or non-essential products seems completely unnecessary and cruel. Scientists should prioritise developing reliable alternatives, such as computer modelling and lab-grown tissue, as quickly as possible.

There is no question that protecting endangered species is critically important, as every animal plays a role in maintaining the balance of its ecosystem. When one species disappears, it can trigger a chain reaction that affects many others, including humans. Ordinary people can help by donating to conservation organisations, reducing their use of single-use plastics, and making more environmentally conscious choices in their daily lives.