【大学受験対策】英語長文問題74（ペット）442語＋和訳・解答解説

Pets have been part of human life for thousands of years, and the relationship between people and their animal companions continues to evolve. Today, many households have at least one pet, whether it is a dog, a cat, or something less common, like a reptile or a rabbit. While some people consider pets as simple sources of entertainment or comfort, others treat them as valued family members. The reasons why humans keep pets have expanded over time—from practical purposes such as hunting or protection, to emotional support and companionship. As a result, modern societies have developed new attitudes toward animal care, reflecting a deeper understanding of the emotional bonds that can form between humans and animals.

In many countries, pets are often seen as loyal friends who provide unconditional love. For example, dogs are especially known for their ability to sense their owners’ emotions. Some studies show that dogs can recognize human facial expressions and respond to them, offering comfort when their owners are sad or stressed. Cats, although sometimes considered independent or even unfriendly, also develop strong attachments to their caregivers. They may show affection through purring, rubbing their heads against their owners, or simply sitting nearby. These behaviors demonstrate that animals, too, are capable of building meaningful social relationships. Because of this, pet ownership can reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental health, especially for people who live alone.

The relationship between humans and pets also has important social effects. For instance, pet owners often meet other people while walking their dogs in parks or attending community events for animal enthusiasts. Such interactions can lead to new friendships and stronger neighborhood connections. Additionally, pets can teach children responsibility and empathy. Feeding, grooming, and playing with pets encourage young people to care for others’ needs and to behave kindly. In schools and hospitals, therapy animals play a growing role by helping people with physical disabilities or emotional challenges. A friendly dog visiting a patient may not cure their illness, but it can certainly bring comfort and courage during recovery.

However, the growing importance of pets in human life also brings challenges. Keeping a pet requires time, money, and long-term commitment. Unfortunately, many animals end up abandoned when their owners can no longer take care of them. This issue has become more serious as the number of pets increases worldwide. Animal shelters are often overcrowded, and many organizations work hard to rescue and protect unwanted animals. Furthermore, some people treat animals like toys or accessories, forgetting that they are living creatures with feelings and needs. Therefore, society must promote responsible pet ownership and encourage people to think carefully before adopting a pet.

Q1. What does the passage imply about pets and people’s emotional well-being?

1. They mainly provide amusement, not real emotional support for owners.
2. They can ease loneliness, especially for people living by themselves.
3. They prevent stress by eliminating all negative feelings completely.
4. They make owners calmer because animals never react to moods.

Q2. How can pets affect human social connections, according to the passage?

1. They usually keep owners indoors, reducing chances to meet others.
2. They replace human friendships, so people stop joining neighborhood activities.
3. They can spark conversations and strengthen ties within local communities.
4. They increase social status, making strangers obey owners’ requests.

Q3. Which statement is NOT supported by the passage?

1. Most pets require little effort, so abandonment is rarely seen.
2. Caring for a pet demands time, money, and commitment.
3. People now keep animals for companionship, not only practical tasks.
4. Therapy animals can encourage patients even when they cannot heal.