Can owning a pet improve your mental health more effectively than traditional therapy?

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the mental health benefits of having a pet. Numerous studies suggest that pets can provide emotional support, reduce anxiety, and offer companionship that can otherwise be lacking in a person's life. Given the rising costs and accessibility issues surrounding traditional mental health therapies, could owning a pet be a viable alternative or supplement to these therapies? This question explores the potential of pet ownership to impact mental well-being, comparing it to more conventional approaches and examining both the benefits and limitations within different contexts and individual lifestyles.