To answer the original question, while I don’t believe they are to be feared, there is good reason not to have them. We (as frum jews) believe in spending our money, efforts, time on things to help us in our growth. I’m not saying you can’t enjoy ice cream. But why bring an animal into the house when you have so much more to be doing? Teach your kids some more. If you have free time, study yourself. Give some money to tzedakah. It’s just a misuse of our valuable resources.
I am not a pet person, but most psychologists say that Pets have a positive effect on people. People who live alone for example are much happier when they have a pet. My grandparents had a dog and it was a good feeling when it went up to you for attention to be petted