<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper">What's happening? </h2>

Nicholas Olenik was told his emu Nimbus was not a pet. It was livestockDomestic animals that are found on farms, such as sheep or cows. and against the law. He had bought the flightless bird to help him after his father and brother died.

But last month, a judgeThe person in a court of law who decides how the law should be applied. said that Nimbus is a "companionSomebody that keeps you company. animal".

"Pets make us human," says expertSomeone who knows a lot about a particular subject. John Bradshaw.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper">Find out more</h2>

Florence NightingaleAn English nurse who cared for patients during the Crimean war, and is known for her pioneering work in statistics and social reforms. gave Jimmy the tortoise to wounded soldiers. "A small pet is an excellent companion for the sick," she wrote.

Expert Yoni Yehuda says it is about more than cuddles. Caring for animals gives people a sense of purposeA reason for doing something. .

But can animals be true friends? Some say we should stop imagining that animals think like humans. This can lead to people buying wild animals as pets.

Yes! Humans can be very mean to each other. But an animal will never say anything mean to you. Animals can be very loving.

No! Having pets is nice, but you need human friends more than anything. Human friends share ideas, hopes and worries - and can help each other in many ways.

Livestock - Domestic animals that are found on farms, such as sheep or cows.

Judge - The person in a court of law who decides how the law should be applied.

Companion - Somebody that keeps you company.

Expert - Someone who knows a lot about a particular subject.

Florence Nightingale - An English nurse who cared for patients during the Crimean war, and is known for her pioneering work in statistics and social reforms.

Purpose - A reason for doing something.