“Animals are such agreeable friends-they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.” – George Eliot

I’m not talking about the cicada swarms, although eating them dipped in chocolate is the big craze. I am talking about having pets and how much they can add to your life. They’re like another kid and can really become part of your family.

I grew up with rescued animals my entire life. Some people like the sound of a fan or white noise to go to sleep. I’ve only known the purr of my cats and it’s pretty cool, even though one lies on my head, and licks my face. Okay he doesn’t let me sleep much but he’s still awesome.

When you come home your pets have missed you. With dogs it doesn’t matter if you came home from work or even if you came back from getting the mail. They come to greet you and make noises of excitement like you’ve been gone forever. They roll around and squirm they’re so happy. They truly love us.

Sometimes I think they might be happier to see me than my wife. Just kidding Honey. Wait. Aren’t there shirts they say “Dogs are better than men.” I guess women are on to us.

Dogs are great to play catch, wrestle or go out for a walk. They are called man’s best friends for a reason. They travel pretty well and can even provide a deterrent to possible threats.

Some animals have actually lived The Incredible Journey from Disney and made their way, against unbelievable odds, back to their old house or even tracked down their owners at their new location.

We never had a designer dog, we had mutts from the shelter and they were fantastic additions to our family. So you don’t need to spend $500 or $1000 dollars for a dog. I’d much rather have a great dog for $50 than a $700 pain in the butt, yipping, over-grown, fancy dog.

Animals have been proven to extend the life of the elderly and provide unconditional love. Some have even saved their owners’ lives.

I have a friend who has his rabbit named Turbo and he loves that little squirt. It really doesn’t matter if it’s a cat, dog, parrot, horse, guinea pig, fish, etc., they all make great companions.

Enjoying your pets is a fantastic way to cheer you up as you give them some well-deserved attention. If you need a pet, there are many advertised in the paper; or check with your area animal r