PET-LOVERS have poured scorn on a psychology professor's claim that cats and dogs are not really man's best friends after all.

John Archer, a professor at the University of Central Lancashire, Preston, told a national conference in Edinburgh that pets give owners "no apparent benefit" and were manipulative.

But animal-lovers have been quick to spring to their pets' defence.

David Greenhalgh, 47, of Greenhalgh and Heal veterinary practice, Burnley said: "Its not true.

"Doctors have found that when pet owners stroke their animals their blood pressure goes down and they become less stressed.

"They even live longer that non pet-owners. Pets are real companions for many people."

He added: "We have a Jack Russell called Patch. We love him and he loves us.

"It isn't just cupboard love either. He really takes to some people and not to others.

"Cats are very independent and they choose their own owners. "If they are not happy you will find they take up residence somewhere else

"As for being manipulative, pets will only manipulate you if you let them.

"Most of the time if pets take owners for a ride it is for a very good ride."

Pet-lover Robert Cross, 40, who owns Animal Magic pet shop, Blackburn said: " I think he is talking rubbish. I own an Alsatian cross whom I absolutely adore, a one-eyed hamster and I have a pond full of tropical fish.

"My pets give me a huge amount of pleasure."

Kevin Durkin, advice and information officer for Age Concern, Blackburn said: "For lonely or isolated people a pet can be a big bonus.

"Older people who have dogs stay fitter because they have to walk the dog.

"It helps them to get out and about and when they are at home, they feel safer."

Professor Archer refused to enlarge today on his reported comments which described pet ownership as "a puzzling form of human behaviour."

"It involves human beings, a member of one species, providing food and care for a member of another species when there is no apparent benefit," he said.

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