If watching the news makes you anxious, 2024 was a bad year. The return of Donald Trump. Global temperatures breaking new records. Ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East.

No wonder some people avoid the news completely. Others turn their attention to the animal world. Here are five of favourite animal stories from this year:

1.Moo Deng. In September, this pygmy hippo went viral for her big eyes, even bigger mouth, and general love of mayhemA situation that is not controlled or ordered, when people are behaving in a disorganised, confused, or even violent way.. With a name that means "bouncy pig" in Thai,¹ millions watched her sliding around the place with her slimy, shiny body.

2. Neil the seal. This baby elephant seal weighs 600kg and roams the streets of Tasmania. Neil has attracted plenty of fans, but the local authorities warn people to keep a safe distance.²

3. Cinnamon the capybara. In autumn, a young capybaraThe largest living rodent, which native to South America. escaped from Hoo Zoo in Shropshire. Owner Will Dorrell claimed that the she was probably "living her best life", which inspired memes, merchandise, and even a song.³

4. Apocalyptic horses. In April, five military horses broke loose during their morning exercise in London. Fortunately, the horses were recovered, but observers on social media asked whether the apocalypseA Christian name for the end of the world. Descended from a Greek word meaning uncover, it was used to describe the Biblical book of Revelation. was close.⁴

5. Sphen the penguin. In 2018 a pair of male Gentoo penguins - Sphen and Magic - fell in love at Sydney's Sea Life aquarium. Sadly, Sphen died in August at the age of 11. "The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking to the penguin colony," said general manager Richard Dilly.⁵

In some cases, the animal stunts that go viral online are the result of cruel training practices, which cause lives of misery, according to journalist Chas Newkey-Burden.⁶

But others argue that animals are an important form of emotional regulation. This means a person's ability to recognise and control their emotional state.⁷ If someone is feeling anxious, watching videos of adorable kittens is a simple and effective way to calm them down.

Pets provide companionship, reduce stress, and encourage good habits.⁸ They can even lower the risk of heart disease and teach children how to socialise. When the world seems to be going mad, animals help to keep people healthy and happy.

Do pets keep us sane?

Yes: Pets provide perspective for our lives. Animals just want food, warmth and loving companionship. They are not a distraction but a reminder of what matters most.

No: Given all the problems facing the world, it is irresponsible to waste time watching videos of animals. Besides, many of these stories come from animals living in captivity, fear or even danger.

Or... The popularity of pets online shows that people are desperate for stories that make them feel better. When faced with so much bad news, thank goodness for the animal kingdom.