THERE are some pets who, pet stores will tell you, don’t thrive well, or at all when bought on their own. These pets are social animals, and unless you commit to spending hours of your time keeping them happy, they’ll need a companion to make their days fun.

These pets include animals like guinea pigs, who do better with other pigs, as well as some breeds of dogs and cats, who need attention continuously.

Your duty as pet owner is to ensure that your pet’s emotional well-being is taken care of. This may include getting two pets instead of one, or choosing another pet altogether, if budget or space doesn’t allow you to have two.

Here is a list of social pets that do better in pairs.

Guinea pigs: Guinea pigs thrive in herds and your pig will be happier with even just one companion. When you’re choosing, make sure that you don’t pair a male and female of breeding age, unless you want them to breed. The best bet is two males or two females, bearing in mind that you will have to gauge your guinea pigs’ personalities, to ensure that they will get along.

Dogs: Dogs are also naturally pack animals, and your dog will be happier with a companion to play with. This is especially true for the small breeds, who are more demanding of time and socialising. So if you’re super busy and own a small dog, you may want to get it a companion so it doesn’t get depressed when it doesn’t get enough attention.

Kittens: Cats generally do well on their own, but they do better with playmates. This is even more important if you’re not at home a lot, and want to ensure that your cat is not lonely. A playmate is even more essential for a kitten, as being rambunctious, they will do better with someone to play with, especially if you want them to expel less energy on things like your shoes and sofa.

Rabbits: You’d be surprised at the behaviours you’ll observe if you have your rabbits in pairs. Any owner of multiple rabbits will tell you that they will chat to each other, primp each other, and be generally happier when there is another rabbit friend around. Owners of single rabbits aren’t so lucky!

Birds: There are some breeds like the cockatiel that need a friend, or they’ll cling to you, because they yearn for companionship. With the amount of attention birds like these demand everyday, you’ll be better served with having another bird, or two, so your pet will have lots of companionship.

Remember too, that if you are going to be away from home a lot, it would be better for your pet to have a buddy at home to romp with. Doing this absolves you of the guilt you may feel at leaving your pet alone at home all day.