Option d is the correct answer. According to the excavated evidence, the domestication of animals began in the Old World during the Mesolithic Period, which lasted from about 20,000 to 8,000 years ago. Dogs were the first animals to be domesticated in Central Asia by at least 15,000 years ago by people who hunted and foraged for wild edible plants. Other animals, such as sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, and horses, were domesticated later, between 10,000 and 5,000 years ago. Domestication of animals was a major achievement in human history, as it provided a reliable source of food, clothing, transportation, and companionship. Important Tips The earliest evidence of domestication of animals in India comes from Adamgarh (M.P.) and Bagor in Rajasthan dated 5500 B.C. and 4500 B.C. respectively. The domestication of animals during the Indus Valley Civilisation was a common practice. These animals included cats, dogs, birds, cows, goats, and buffaloes used in trade and agriculture.