CONSULTANCY/CONTRACT RESEARCH $5,000 The relationship between humans and domesticated pets is an historic one which has the potential for positive behavioural and mental health outcomes. Relationships between an owner and a pet can be profound. There can be challenges which include housing, social connectedness, access to health and social services, employability, and opportunity. Exploring the way in which humans interact with pets to protect them, sustain them, draw emotional support from them and vice versa, are integral to understanding the challenges and opportunities that can be derived from pet ownership in different context. This understanding can be leveraged to maximise services and opportunities that can harness these benefits and to mitigate challenges that are experienced.