Pet Robots give positive health effects

Research at Purdue University showed that owning and interacting with a pet robot such as a Sony Aibo results in much the same companionship as an animal pet.

The study wasn't funded by Sony but was based on a questionnaire given to a small group of elderly individuals about the quality of life both before and after their ownership of an Aibo. A similar study was conducted of 6 to 15 year olds and found that robots "could be a good companion."

The learnings of the study included the assertion that a pet robot could help to encourage social interaction. So artificial pets can produce real benefits to individuals. If some people have allergies or are not in a mental state to look after a real-life pet, an artificial one should be considered if companionship is required or confidence needs building.