Petside.com

Patrick June 23, 2009 12:48 PM

Out of all 7 cats (9, counting the two feral kittens we're socializing), only one doesn't have a human name, and that's our semi-diluted tortoiseshell Coaly. Even the dog has a human name, or at least a nickname: Magic. I think humans give their pets human names because it's easier to come up with a human name, be it after a real person or a fictional human character (I named one cat we have "Maggie", after the baby on "The Simpsons"), than to come up with some cutesy or more pet-related name, like "Frou-Frou" or "Sparky". That, and sometimes pets have human-like characteristics, and those characteristics may remind you of someone you knew with that name, or it just seem like the name fits. We have named one of the kittens Jack, and he's been given the nicknames "Jumpin' Jack Flash" or "Jack Rabbit" or "Jackie Legs" or "Kangaroo Jack" because he has a tendency to jump or hop, much like a kangaroo or rabbit. The other kitten we named "Xena" after the warrior princess. My mom was the one that named them. Jack seems to fit, but why she called her Xena, I don't know. I would have chosen Diane or Jill, personally.

Cheryl June 23, 2009 2:11 PM

Our dogs all came with their names but they are all human names. The two greyhounds used to have race names but were changed by the adoption group to human names.

Bob June 23, 2009 2:41 PM

We have 5 dogs (4 small & 1 large). We always take them camping when we go camping and they love it.

Linda June 23, 2009 4:04 PM

My dogs are certainly treated like humans at our house. We have always heated and cooled our house to suit them while we are not home . We have fed them people leftovers before. At the last vet check=up at the vet, the vet proclaimed all 3 are overweight. Since I want them to live out their lives to the maximum years each , all are now on a dry dog food diet.We were giving them canned food mixed in with the dry. This was mostly because my husband insisted. So this has been a re- training event for all of us. I am home full time now due to a back injury. I would go crazy without Tasha ,Lizzie , and Abby. Oops ! Almost forgot the cat because he does drive me crazy . His name is Maynard. He chose us as a family and just moved in 1 1/2 yrs ago.

Marti June 23, 2009 4:58 PM

I have 2 cats, Cleo and Willy, a Chihuahua named Lucia, a terrior mix dog name Alex, 2 amazon parrots, named Jobi and Rhett. All of these pets are part of our family, the dogs/cats sleep with me, etc. They are wonderful company, don't know what I would do without them!!

Althea Rose June 23, 2009 6:18 PM

I have issues with some of the data - you can't really compare dogs and cats for traveling on vacation or to work. Most of them respond very differently to the control required for trips outside the home.

beth June 23, 2009 6:23 PM

Taking our three cats, Kuba, Kayan & Portia, to Hawaii when we moved was expensive and difficult. But when we adopted each of them it was to be a lifelong committment. Many more pet-friendly overnight accomodations exist now than in the past. They all got lots of attention in hotel lobbies, but were happy to arrive in their new home.

PeachsT June 23, 2009 7:03 PM

I have 2 dogs and 2 cats, They are my family, After my husband divorced me after 34 years, I had to have a reason to go on living, so I adopted my pet family. They are much much more than just pets. I am always considerate of their comfort and happiness. They mean everything to me and I will do whatever it takes to keep them healthy and safe.

THERESA June 23, 2009 8:04 PM

WE TREAT OUR PETS LIKE HUMAN MEMBERS OF OUR FAMILY.

Cricket and me June 23, 2009 8:32 PM

I asked Cricket what he thinks. He said, "If your asking a dachshund for his opinion, then obviously you are treating me like a human. So I guess the answer has to be yes. Cricket sometimes steals shoes or slippers, but he has never lied to me.

valeriw June 23, 2009 9:00 PM

my four dogs are not like my kids they are my kids

hugh mobley June 23, 2009 9:03 PM

my three rescued cats and one shi pu dog are family, life revolves around their needs, they need us as much as we need them.

catman! June 23, 2009 9:08 PM

My two cats "Bobby Seale"-a black tomcat naturally, and my girl cat "Moon Unit" after Frank Zappa's daughter. They sleep in my bed or wherever they want,they are NOT allowed on the counters or table-I don't walk on them either ;-) Bobby is the best friend I've ever known, and my Moon is a sweetheart. Love them both.

Essen's Dad June 23, 2009 9:15 PM

My German Shepherds are my children. I have taken them on vaction before. I once rented and Island for them and my gal, our two Shepherds and 2 cats all stayed there for the weekend. Yes, they certainly are family members.

the man June 23, 2009 9:16 PM

Bunch of sicko's that need help.
These people have socoial issues and had some sort of trauma growing up.

Tim June 23, 2009 9:21 PM

These people have a need that is unfullfilled they are sadly missing something in their life, though they would deny it!

Rosie and Ginger's mom June 23, 2009 9:28 PM

Hey 'the man'. Have you ever stopped to consider that maybe YOU'RE the one who has 'social issues'! Perhaps YOU'VE had 'some sort of trauma growing up'.
I bet if you have/had a dog you probably keep it chained up outside and barely feed it right?!

Mark June 23, 2009 9:36 PM

I rescued my cat from an abusive situation, he was near death. He was extremely scared of everyone, very malnourished, full of fleas and his coat was the worst I have ever seen. After a year of work with him, he is now a healthy well feed flea free boy. It took a long time but now he has trust in people, is willing to interact with my friends and loves to look out the window. I have given him the best of everything, food, water, home and love. He is a family member equal to all; he even has his own chair in the living room. When he met me he fell into a pot of gold, I love him like a human child and I will never let him go, he is the best!

samiam June 23, 2009 9:41 PM

i spent 12K to charter a jet for a cross country move with my dog - he was too old to travel by car. i would spend my life savings on this dog ... he means that much to me.

Jan June 23, 2009 9:49 PM

We have rescued a number of greyhounds. We now have four. The youngest grey sleeps with us while the other three sleep on any of the numerous beds we have in our home and around our beds. When we are not in the beds, then they have total control. We also make sure they have beds outside to lay on instead of the grass. The TV is usually on so they have noise in the house when we go out. I would say they are definitely family members. After all, why have a pet if you leave it outside as some individuals forget they are outside. Our greyhounds are the sweetest pets we have had and you can have six greys and wouldn't notice them because they are so socialized and love to be with you. I can't imagine not having my pets next to me.

My dog Shadow June 23, 2009 9:52 PM

I got Shadow, a peek-a-pooh when he was just small fur ball. He was my companion, my pal, my beer drinking buddy and the very best friend one could have. He enjoyed riding on a lawn mower, hanging out the car window and walking every morning and evening rain or shine. He eventually lost his hearing and eye sight, but he could still smell me. He was with me for over 16 years before he just finally gave up. I miss him very much, he can never be replaced.

dogloverof7 June 23, 2009 9:55 PM

we have 7 dogs 4 dachshunds (lowrider, amos, brutus, zoe) a mini poodle chloe, a newf mix pugsley and a great dane tasha along with our 3 cats furby, buddy and garfield. They are our family. We didn't have kids, these are our kids. They don't lie to us, don't talk back most of the time, love us no matter what BUT we do NOT feed them human food. I love my animals enough to not feed them people food so that they will live longer.

Rob And Sue June 23, 2009 9:55 PM

my Wife and i have 2 cats and two dogs,they are like our children and we treat them as such. We too would spend every dime i had for my pets health and safty.

Jani June 23, 2009 9:59 PM

June 23, 2009
My Rocky (Benji lookalike) is a rescue dog from the shelter. He comes to work with me; sleeps in my bed; travels with me when possible; responds to everyday English; has a vocabulary (3 pages single-spaced) and civilized training better than most people's children; makes me smile from the moment I wake up; keeps me calm and unruffled when I might not otherwise be; shares my love of frozen yogurt, cheese, and sleeping in on the weekends; and has enriched my life far more than I would have ever imagined possible. Best of all, he's not judgemental and doesn't care how I look. I am honored and privileged to take care of him, to be responsible for his health and well-being. Although obviously a mixed breed, I paid his previous owner a 4-figure amount to come live with me--and I'd do it again and again and again. Such unconditional love cannot be bought anywhere.

Rooster June 23, 2009 10:03 PM

Our dogs are like special kids. Heck, when our last one died we had him cremated and put him in a something called a sculpturn --it's a sculpture urn that looks just like him. It's almost like he's still with us.

Phylis June 23, 2009 10:05 PM

I have 8 cats that all live in the house with us. I would never consider letting them go outside. They are all my kids. I look forward to coming home everyday at lunch because they know they are going to get a treat. And they are always watching out the front window for me to come home in the afternoon and it makes me feel good that they love me as much as I love them. I do consider them my family and I would not have it any other way.

Judyannnnne June 23, 2009 10:15 PM

Uncle Peete is spoiled, quarellous, pugilistic, but he's my dog and it's up to me with the grace of God to look after him. We're growing older along side each other. He hates my brother and is always itching for a scrap. He went gray when he was just a puppy so I named him appropriately right from the start. Uncle Peete.

Debbie, Odie, Boo, Ms Purr and Jett June 23, 2009 10:17 PM

I have 2 Maltese, and 2 rescue cats from the shelter. They are kind enough to let me sleep in their King size bed with a view of the lake. The dogs have their own wardrobe, beds and treats. The cats have full access to EVERYTHING and their own bird feeder for fun. The dogs travel via air and car. The cats stay home to stalk birds. Good thing they let me live here or I would be homeless! Signed Debbie, Volunteer
www.corneliusanimalshelter.com

DogMom13 June 23, 2009 10:31 PM

I was always raised with our dogs being members of the family. My 10 year old mutt is my little girl through and through, I would do anything for her. My husband's 17 year old mix is his girl and he's had her since middle school, he is very attached to her. The 4 of us together are a family, without a doubt.

Some people may not understand or see it, dogs(and cats) have thier own little thoughts and feelings. They feel pain, they feel joy, they feel jealousy, and even sadness(we had a male Great Dane that literally cried tears of sadness when his mate of 5 years died - no one could ever convince me that they don't have feelings or not understand when some things happen).

People that can't show affection towards an animal worry me. It's like they are one step away from being sociopaths with no morals against killing an animal.

saul June 23, 2009 10:32 PM

i have 3 cat, they are our life, we love them so much, just the same way they love

winedy June 23, 2009 10:34 PM

My 17 y/o Basset/Springer mix 'rescue' dog is my "child". We have great communication with each other. Most times all that is needed is a look. He learned all his good manners and skills by the "Woodhouse" way. He goes everywhere with me, with the exception of long trips now. He is a sweet loving dog, and my boyfriend is a little concerned that if it came down to a choice of the dog or him I may choose the dog. It would be a tough decision, even though the dog needs more care.

lizabeth June 23, 2009 10:35 PM

MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE 6 GROWN CHILDREN.THEY HAVE GROWN AND GONE. WE NOW HAVE A YORKIE THAT HAS SUCH SPECIAL WAYS . HE IS 5 YRS OLD,AND I HAVE HAD HIM 2 OF THOSE YEARS.WHEN WE WAKE UP MORNINGS HE BRINGS A SMILE TO OUR FACES,AND JOY TO MY HEART. I NEVER KNEW I COULD LOVE AN ANIMAL AS MUCH AS I LOVE DUS MOP.OH, BY THE WAY HE TALKS.I CAN UNDERSTAND ANY AND EVERYTHING HE IS TELLING ME I TRULY LOVE MY PET.

Kandi June 23, 2009 10:37 PM

I feel sorry for anyone who DOESN'T understand what it is like to love and care for an animal. I have a Chi-Pom mix and she is the love of my life. She never leaves my side when I am home, sleeps curled up under the covers at my tummy, she loves me always, no matter how imperfect I am, she doesn't judge me, she is just there for me. And like someone else said, she has a vocabulary. She understands just about anything I say to her. It is sometimes amazing.

She is sad when I leave, she is beside herself with happiness when I come home. She has her quirks that sometimes drive me nuts, but that is what makes her who she is.

Again, anyone that has never known that, I feel sorry for you. And those of you that are being hateful about those of us that have the ability to love animals the way we do, you are the type of people that would let Michael Vick get away with the horrible abuse he put those dogs through. Someone should do the things to HIM that he did to those poor dogs.

Animals, FEEL. They hurt. They feel joy. They don't understand why they are abused, and yet many time remain loyal to their abusers. Now if THAT doesn't tell you how much they deserve our unconditional love and respect then you are the one with issues.

When my little Mattie dies, she will be cremated and she will be kept with me. Some day when I die, she will go into my coffin or will be mixed into my ashes if I am created. She is THAT important to me.

And I will never apologize for that.

Jdawg June 23, 2009 10:38 PM

What the hell is wrong with you "the man" and "Tim" did a dog piss on your shoe? Don't be hatin....it's lame

anne June 23, 2009 10:39 PM

My husband and I have 10 male cats.(6 out of the 10 were strays that were abandoned from the apt.house up the street.) We love our boys and would do anything in our power to keep them happy safe. They are definitly family members. They act more human than some people I know. really. What breaks my heart is that China and other asian countries,skin dogs and cats ALIVE! It is a horrible and heinious torture they are forced to endure. Those people, correction, ...monsters, they don't deserve to be called people/human. ...and would you believe, they do it for profit? Dogs and cats have the mentality of children, they're just like kids. Would you, for 1 second, skin your kid alive? for money?

Jeff June 23, 2009 10:39 PM

I have 3 cats....all rescues. They are like my children. Each has their own distinct personality and mannerisms. I can definitely tell what they are thinking or what they want by their meows and facial expressions. Definitely a part of the family. I talk to them just like I'd talk to a human child. They are my life

Mo June 23, 2009 10:42 PM

When my lil Parrot Lucy died I grieved. She/He was the only pet I have had as an adult and my reaction surprised me. Love & trust are love & trust no matter the genus or species involved. That bird knew my name, learned it off the answering machine and welcomed me home every day. I miss that little baby every day.

Can this be mentally ok? June 23, 2009 10:44 PM

This can't be ok, treating an animal like a human. I wonder what a pyciatrist would say about this. Lets here there views and oppinions AP!

BMDGPRMOM4 June 23, 2009 10:46 PM

I AM THE MOM OF 4 BEAUTIFUL DOGS....2 BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOGS AND 2 GREAT PYR'S....I RAISED 3 CHILDREN AND ALWAYS HAD DOGS, CATS, HAMSTERS...WELL NOW WITH THE KIDS GROWN I HAVE NEW KIDS...FUR-BABIES....I COOK FOR THEM , I BAKE FOR THEM.... I TRAVEL WITH THEM...NEVER LEAVE THEM IN BOARDING KENNELS...PURCHASE A MOBILE HOME FOR THEM... PURCHASE ALL OUR AUTOS TO ACCOMODIATE THEM,.... AND RECENTLY PURCHASED 12 ACRES OF LAND AND BUILT A NEW HOME FOR THEM .... THEY ARE MORE THAN FAMILY TO US!!!!!!! AND YES I WORK.....MANY HOURS BUT MY OURS ARE AROUND THEIR SCHEDULES...HUBBY AND I ARE ALWAYS THERE FOR THEM...THEY GIVE US UNCONDITIONAL LOVE...I'VE EVEN HAD ONE OF MY DOGS PULL ME OUT OF MY HOME BY THE ARM WHEN THE SMOKE ALARM WAS BEEPING THINKING THAT SHE WAS SAVING ME....THAT'S LOVE MY FRIENDS----- FAMILY TILL THE END...OR UNTIL WE MEET ACROSS RAINBOW HEAVEN

CATHY

sue s. June 23, 2009 10:53 PM

My dog is human!!!!!!!!!

Steve June 23, 2009 10:56 PM

We have two Bostons and a cat. All three are female. Each has its own personality and way of loving you and ways to tick you off. Now compare that to our two "human" children, male and female, and I'd say they are all our children. You can see Bitsy our 11 yr old Boston and Misty the 11 yr old cat at www.ngalonline.org on the Spay/Neuter page.

animalsnothuman June 23, 2009 10:59 PM

you people are nuts!

kathy June 23, 2009 11:00 PM

Life is not worth living without dogs! Period. All my dogs are treated like humans - I have four. I also have 3 cats and 2 horses. But dogs are special. I do not understand people who do not love animals - I think they are missing something in their brain.

Arline June 23, 2009 11:01 PM

My dog, Tommy, is the focus of my life. I think of him as a little person, and talk to him like a person. He understands what I am saying, and has quite a vocabulary.
His diet is human food, prescribed by his veterinary nutritionist: rice, chicken, kale, pumpkin, with vitamins, etc. added. With carefully controlled amounts, his weight is maintained. He is perfect.

wowzers June 23, 2009 11:02 PM

if you people would put this kind of effort into human relationships, we would all live in a much better world. your pet will die in the next 10 years more than likely then who will your best friend be?

Cheryl June 23, 2009 11:10 PM

We have a Jack Russell and 2 cats and they are spoiled rotten. They sleep with us and treated very much as a family member. But they are our pets, not our kids. We have our kids and grandchildren who come first. I just believe if you have pets, then you must take the responsibility to give them first rate care and love!

Mental Help June 23, 2009 11:11 PM

Sicko's.
It's scary to read these comments of how people think animals are humans.
People that treat animals better then humans have SERIOUS mental issues.
We had many dogs growing up and took great care of them but also knew the difference between animals and humans unlike you freaks.

Amen, wowzers June 23, 2009 11:12 PM

This world would be a better place

Maddie June 23, 2009 11:13 PM

Our dog is indeed part of the family. She sleeps next to (MOM). She goes everywhere we go. Than includes the grocery store, bank, for coffee, shopping at the mall, or wherever we go. The only time she stays home is when we go out to eat, or it is to hot to leave her in the car. She gives us more kisses than our kids ever did. She is the love of our life now that we are retired. If she could she would help me type this article. There is nothing like her. We love her so much

Zaubear June 23, 2009 11:15 PM

I am recovering from the loss of my two children-in-fur (marmalade tabby cats)Chip and Dale. I had them almost 13 years (and two human relationships)and they passed away within 3 months of each other (12/08 - 03/09). No, they weren't treated as children, but between either the dentist or vet, the "kids" were taken care of before I was. The helped me during a depressive period of my life, needing to be taken care of so I didn't stay in bed all day. Needless to say, I owed them a lot, as they "helped" in my recovery. Did I treat them as children, No! Did I give them unconditional love, Yes! (even with the furballs - ick) I had no one else in my life, so they were the focus of my affection. Dress them up, heck no. I would have looked like a well-used scratching post if I tried. Can animals love? I don't know. All I do know is the feeling of contentment I get when holding or petting a bundle of contented breathing fur.

Anonymous June 23, 2009 11:17 PM

I'm glad I don't know Mental Help. I wonder how many times he hit, kicked, or hurt an animal because he thought he was so much better than them. You are sick

Tx-Cat-Dog-CHL June 23, 2009 11:22 PM

Poll question: "Would you shoot somebody who killed your pet on your property? (Just walked up and killed it. No reason.)"

wowzers June 23, 2009 11:23 PM

yes if you animal lovers would also completely support pro-life, then I wouldn't mind hearing all your nonsense, but if you think a fetus' life is optional, your priorities are drastically confused.

Frank June 24, 2009 1:12 AM

LOL I dare say pets could teach some "human animals" the virtue of trust and unconditional love but obviously some cases are hopeless.

WHILE YOU'RE AWAY, SF (www.whileyoureawaysf.com) June 24, 2009 1:14 AM

Not surprised by this at all! My Doberman Pinscher sleeps in bed with me, gets to sit on the sofa, goes on trips with me, gets home-cooked meals 2 -3 times per day. We're inseparable!

PW June 24, 2009 1:21 AM

These people are so needy, is it that hard to find love in America that dogs and cats are forced to sublimate for human beings. If only they could talk when forced to sleep, kiss, lick and be slaves of love for the sad people. I think it shows a general, undiagnosed sickness.

Deborah June 24, 2009 2:01 AM

my digs are Shith zu, (3) three males. All from the same mother put two different dad's.Toby Ji Neely I got as an anniversay present. I couldn't of gotten a better one. Then Mojo Pete, whom is Toby's brother. my cousin went home for a reunion and left a friend at the house to watch the dogs. Well, he didn't watch them very well cause
Pete and Susie his mom got together and that is how we ended up with Danny Boy. Plus Danny and Toby would play together and we wanted a playmate for Toby. But Pete and Toby had a ball playing, so I talked my cousin into letting me bring home with me since she was havinv med. problems at the time. I told her she could have him back anytime she wanted, but Thank God she didn't want him home and he's one of the family like the other two(2). We found out that Pete has a heart condition, so we have to get meds for him about every month (2) that he takes twice a day. He had a tooth pulled right after we got him. We had labs done on him last week and they had doubled from the last time 6 weeks before; I have to start cooking for him cause everything has to much salt. Got to find a cookbook or some recieves for no salt heart patient (dog). They sleep with us whenever we go do bed for nitetime or naps. They give us all kinds of loving at the door when we get home. I couldn't do without my babies. My grandkids are in NC and I don't get to see them. They don't know that they are dogs. When we travel they have over half the van for a pallet.LOL Well. I guess I have talked enough.

Frank June 24, 2009 10:49 AM

PW yes it is that hard in America to find "love" and companionship in America. At least the genuine article.
So, how is desiring love and friendship, and not wanting to be alone and rejected a sickness?

Can you enlighten us on that?

Roberta June 24, 2009 12:45 PM

Let me tell you I have 11 cats and would have 50 if I could. I have 1 dog and would have 50 of them also. They are family, they give unconditional love, are happy to see me when I come home, know when I am upset and know how to comfort me. They are nicer then most people I have met. So are them family you are darn tooten they are, they have hearts and feelings just like we do. They may not be able to verbally express themselves, but we know when they are feeling down just as they know when we are in need of their TLC. If you don't consider your pet part of the family, maybe you are not one that should own one.

Barbara June 24, 2009 12:59 PM

I have 13 cats (all rescued) and 4 Dogs.They are mine and my husbands "Kids",we would give them the world if we could. They make us always want to smile and hug and kiss them.We would not have it any other way.

Cathie June 24, 2009 1:16 PM

I love my dogs...and I thought of them as humans until I had children. But, I must admit that when I began a quest for my human family to eat better, I also used the same knowledge for my dogs. So, they benefit in the long run. When I started my kids and husband on supplements, I also found one for my dogs. And, when I started label reading foods, I did the same for my dogs. I found the best human vitamins at melaleuca.com and the best dog vitamins at dinovite.com. We are all healthier and happier, humans and canines :)

Dog Lover June 24, 2009 1:29 PM

I think Tim , and the Man, are the ones with problems. Almost feel sorry for you two. Your really missing out! Makes me wonder how you feel about people!

Sorry for you June 24, 2009 1:30 PM

This is for all of you that are so cold as to not have or truly love another spicies of amimal: Not knowing the LOVE of a dog/cat or other animal is such a shame for you, you don't know what you're missing, I feel sorry for you. Of course you are not going to understand but by the grace of God you may learn to LOVE.

Dog Lover June 24, 2009 1:43 PM

Mental Help! Talk about scary! You are the one that needs help. Sounds like you are incapable of any kind of love.

puss, punky & addie's mom June 24, 2009 2:41 PM

I don't know what I would do without my kitties & my dog in the evenings. My husband works 2nd shift & our kids are grown and out of the house. They keep me company and are very entertaining. We take Addie camping, hiking, and geo-caching, if she sees us putting on our hiking boots she goes bananas & heaven forbid, we leave her
behind! Puss is the only one that sleeps on the botom of the bed, Punky prefers the back of the couch and since Addie is a dobie, she has her own bed. They are treated as much loved family members, but I would never dress them up & they get very little table scraps, though Puss likes ice cream, Punky likes tuna, & Addie begs for p-nut butter! They all offer nothing but unconditional love in exchange for a belly rub, a walk, or a cuddle, and what is wrong with that?

anon June 24, 2009 5:19 PM

dogs have more human traits than cats as cats tend to nap the day away and dogs want to be with you everywhere as part of pack orientation and other traits. It appears to be victory by design as evolution can never be proven unless you were actually there to witness it over the course of millions of years and that includes fossils or genetics which are building blocks which is another indication of design.

Gloria June 24, 2009 11:42 PM

I have two cats, which I love dearly. I am a widow and they keep me company. B.G. named after my late husband, is the most loving cat, he hugs me, kisses me, talks to me. J.C. was rescued from a shelter, he always comes to me and meows when he is looking for B.G. or wants his treats. If I am in bed he comes and meows until I get out of bed and follow him he either leads me to his treat bowl or we go room to room looking for B.G. As soon as we find his brother he stops meowing and cuddles with B.G. and I return to bed. This happens almost every evening. Believe it this does not bother me, the affection they give to me is worth getting up during the night. Today I started dancing with the both of them, they loved it. Both like music, as much as I do. If I could I would have lots of cats, but for me that is not possible. I found prayers for animals on the internet for any one who might be interested in saying a prayer for animals. God bless all the people who take good care of their pets.

Momofthree June 25, 2009 10:48 AM

Wowser - You're right, my three beloved dogs will all probably die within the next ten years. Maybe I shouldn't love them. But then again, my husband died after only 15 years of marriage. Maybe I shouldn't have loved him either? When we love a living being, there's only two possibilities - we will outlive them, or they will outlive us. It's the risk we take when we love. I didn't hear anyone say they chose relationships with their pets over human relationships; many of us have both. Why would you assume that one type of love automatically excludes the other? I feel sad for you.

ivory_tower_nj2000 June 25, 2009 11:15 AM

You know we have always treated our animals like members of the family. I now have 2 dogs that I admit I build my life around. We go to bringfido.com and will go to events that are advertise for dogs. Yes, our dogs are treated like dogs, but at the same time we do spoil them. The dogs I have currently came into my life just as I was learning to walk again and both children moved out. One went with her fiance (now her husband) to MO and the other joined the military. These two came into my husband and my life and I consider them the best therapy I have ever gotten. They are spoiled rotten and yes they do wear clothes. The puppy that was a puppy mill rescue we got just this year has medical problems: seizures. We went out and bought a stroller, so she could still go with us to activities, but have a safe place to be in the event of a seizure. Our dogs are defiantly part of our family and we are very proud to have that claim. If you do not treat your pet as part of the family- then I feel sorry for that pet, and hope you see the errors of your way.

Sugrbear June 25, 2009 12:28 PM

I have always had pets. Dog, cat, rabbit, horse. I love having a pet. I have a daughter who was 21 and going to have a baby. She had a daughter of her own which in turn made me want a baby. I turned a Nana at 40. Do you think its cool to become a mother again at 40? Heck no so I talked my husband into letting me choose a dog. I wanted something small with loads of hair (hair stylist) and smart. I did research on toy poodles. I found a breeder 5 hrs away from me. My granddaughter was 8 months old at the time and she and I were very close. I took my granddaughter with me as well as my brother and husband to pick out a pet. My granddaughter picked one out. They chose each other. I went home with a 2 month old little black ball of fur that could fit in the palm of my hand.
It was nice cuz I got to teach her everything. Potty training, eating, how to go up and down steps, crate training (best thing I ever did there), She never knew what grass was until I got her. She hates the rain. My little fair weather friend.
She is 4 now. January 22 she will be 5. She gets christmas presents, birthday presents, she gives me cards from the dog...
I can't count the words or sentences that she knows. She is so smart. My husband has passed on. I have a boyfriend now and we have been together 2.5 years. My poodle loves him. I think she likes him better than me really. She is jealous of us if we sit together. She has to be right in between us. We let her do it. She is truly my baby. She knows it. I hate to call her a dog even though she is one, I know that but she is so close to being my kid and my daughter is far from being a dog so its hard to reference something that I cherish as such. My daughter calls herself "sissy" to my dog.
She is truly a part of the family.
Her name is Sadie Elaine.

520doglover June 25, 2009 2:36 PM

I adopted my greyhound, so I kept her racing name, which was an old fashioned human name, not used much now. She sleeps in the bed with me, and I take her with me to visit my children and grandchildren.

Anonymous June 25, 2009 7:15 PM

Well let's see Mandy, Bogie (after Humphrey Bogart) and Paisley Grace. I would say all mine have had human names.

KOOL&CALM2 June 25, 2009 8:20 PM

My Shihapoo is named Jazz, because I love Jazz. I bought him for my valentine gift, he is 1 yr. and 6 months.
I love him dearly. I trained him myself, he does not sleep with me, but he likes to get in my bed and watch TV.
Sometimes he sleep by the side of my bed or downstairs in his own bed. He loves my daughter and my two grandsons.
I think he is over weigh (14lbs.) I believe it will be hard on both of us to retrain him to eat just dog food. He loves human food. He goes to the Vet for his regular check-ups and grooming. My two sisters has dogs and my niece. At family gathering all dogs are present. I love my baby.

my Babies June 26, 2009 10:34 AM

my 2 Dachshound an one yorkie are the Love off my Life.i am totally comitted to them

catma1 June 29, 2009 9:53 AM

I have cats, and I've seemed to stick with a theme for naming them. I have Gypsy, Rose, Lee, Stripper, Mata, Hari, and Madam. Then a couple months ago I found a stray cat in my driveway, and I figured since I had strippers and a madam, they should have a customer...so I named him John.
I love my cats dearly...being single with no kids...they are my family.

Converted July 3, 2009 3:56 PM

I used to raise my eyebrows a bit when I would see people who acted like their dogs and cats were their children. I'd wonder if they were crazy. Then I moved into my own apartment and I got two small dogs to keep me company. Then I realized those people who treated their animals as if they were human weren't so crazy. I mean people can go a bit overboard with things like letting your dog have a highchair and sit at the dinner table(my grandma had a friend who did that), or give your dog their own bedroom(my mother had a wealthy friend with no children who did that). But until you have a dog of your own you really shouldn't judge others. My two dogs are like my children, if anything ever happend to either of them my husband and I would be crushed. Dogs do things that are alot like humans. My shichon for instance loves to help me garden. Granted she doesn't help as much as she thinks she does she trys to help me prune plants and pull weeds. And if she doesn't get her way she pouts like a little child. Have you ever noticed that people who have pets that are more like family seem to be happier and friendlier more outgoing people. All those haters of animal lovers probably could use some unconditional animal kindness to warm up their life seeing as their hearts seem a bit cold.

Janine July 6, 2009 11:50 PM

Wow, after reading so many wonderful stories I feel like I need to talk about my baby, booey. She is one of the most amazing cats a person could ever meet, however, get on the wrong side of her and she will pretend you don't even exist! I find it hilarious that when my boyfriend sleeps over she gets jealous of him sleeping in the bed with me and refuses to even sleep in the same room, she most definately has an attitude but I wouldn't want it any other way. I love her so very much, and yes, she is part of my family and always will be.

Leslee July 8, 2009 11:45 AM

I volunteer at a local cat rescue and adoption agency. We do our best to be sure all our cats and kittens get great homes, no matter how long it may take. Vaccines, medicines, neutering/spaying, litter, food...all of that is expensive and it's also time-consuming on the volunteer's part. But you know what? There's a magical moment when a cat looks into someone's eyes on adoption day, it's a connection I can't describe. All of you who love your pets as family members--you're the reason we keep working so hard, to give our sweet rescues that second chance to find people like you! Your stories are heartwarming. Oh, and those who felt the need to comment that they just don't "get it"? How sad. Thankfully you're vastly outnumbered by those of us who do!

Dee July 8, 2009 4:46 PM

I have three cats: Sophie, Tippy, and Allie. So two out of the three have human names. Of course, they can sleep with me if they want to. They're very important to me, but I do not consider them my children. I have real, grown-up kids, so that spot in my heart is taken, but my kitties come in a close second place.

Jim July 13, 2009 2:39 PM

I named my senegal parrot Chopin, after the famous Polish composer to show a tie to our family's Polish roots.

Why is it that everytime someone says "pets" it's always dogs or cats? I have a pet and he's a coc July 21, 2009 9:41 AM

Alyce Why is it that when people say "pets" they always think of dogs and cats. I have a bird (cockatiel) and I love him as much as any other pet owner. His name is Chrissy and he talks to me. Try that sometime dog or cat owners!! He's a lot of company to me

Jennifer Crawford July 30, 2009 3:47 AM

Hello, My name is Jennifer. I know someone who can make sculptures of your pet. I had him make one of my dog Scotch, and it looks just like him! These sculptures are hand crafted and hand carved. You can get a sculpture made of your pet from wood, marble, and limestone. You can look him up on face book under Bill Wrin. I will post a picture of my dog Scotch, and his sculpture on face book. He can make sculptures of any pet. If anyone is interested in having a sculpture made of their pet, feel free to contact me @ 317-809-1806, or email me Jenntend@yahoo.com. I would be happy to give you any information.

Anonymous August 21, 2009 6:35 PM

i LOVE MY DOOGGIES!
I ONLY HAVE TO BUT THEY ARE TREATED LIE KINGS! HAHA

anonymous August 22, 2009 9:34 AM

i dont know what to say, i had a pitbull jay he stay in the house with me. i care for him very much but then i found out i was having a baby, so guess where jay went OUTSIDE in a dog pin. You people are crazy in the head, 5,10,15 pet why dont you adopt a human child care for it. like you care for that dog or cat that child would be more greatful than that dog or cat would ever be.

Cat Lover October 14, 2009 4:24 AM

We own 50+ Cats. We live in a duplex. On my side we have 8 & on the other side there are close to 20. The rest are feral and live outside, but are fed daily and have access to a heated porch in winter and or find there way to the basement (170yo house) via various nooks and crannies. All the cats are treated very well. Some have medical problems and have regular vet care (1 is diabetic needing daily insulin shots) They get good quality dry food, and very commonly canned. Certain cats only like certain flavors of canned food, and are fed according to their little specific kitty taste buds. They get kitty treats. Occasionally they are even treated to fresh fish, and rarely...shrimp. They all LOVE ham. They live clean, with potty boxes changed daily in summer (they go outside) and up to 3 times daily in winter. They sleep on the couches & beds, they have personal pillows, blankets, they love cardboard boxes,etc. My favorites are Buster, Mouse-man, Bear Bear, and I guess, "My" cat, Vinny aka Vinchenze, Vinny Vin, Chenza, etc. She (originally thought she was a boy, hence the name Vinny) sleeps on my bed nightly, often falling asleep right on top of my chest or legs. She is also very vocal and chatty always responding to her name with a meow. If they aren't "Members of the Family", then I don't know what constitutes one, or for that matter, what a family even is.

Gary Holland October 31, 2009 1:55 PM

Pet owners who pretend their dog or cat or gerbil is a child are NUTS. Hey all you dog "parents", did you neuter your fur child? Oh dear, you've taken away its reproductive rights; some parent YOU are!

Gary Holland October 31, 2009 1:57 PM

BTW, the dumb animals can't appreicate being treated like kings. They'll continue to lick their own butt, eat gross stuff, and sleep their useless lazy lives away on fancy beds. Fools and their money being soon parted couldn't be truer than with pet addicts.

Pat October 31, 2009 2:00 PM

I agree! People who humanize NON-humans have fallen for the most insane fad ever to hit America. Some of these dopes even dance with dogs, and do yoga workouts with them! I wonder how many are into, you know, ...the "B" word. If they love their mutt so much, they should marry it!

jeff m November 6, 2009 10:58 AM

my pooch has a human name...shes a pit/lab mix named alex shes the best and has such a wonderful personality

chine January 31, 2010 3:21 AM

I have a dog, he is part of the pack. Fun loving and a joy to have around. Its like having a 2 year old that never grows up. I like him more than most humans. It takes a lot of patience sometimes. 3 rules that I have and I allow no exceptions for are no begging, no whining and he is not allowed to sleep in my bed. Thats all. I have also trained him with hand commands. Dogs understand body language better than words. Most people cannot believe how well behaved he is. He is an adoption and was passed off as a dumb dog. This was not the case. Its very easy to train a dog. If you cant train a dog how can you raise a child to become a productive member of society. He is a good dog and a great friend to boot. He gets people food on occasion, chili dogs for Christmas dinner and bits of food that I cook if Im full. I save him bones from rib dinners too. But he loves his dog food just fine. He and I also exercise regularly. A good addition to my life. I am also a chef, and had to wait tables in school.

Just a note, please dont tell your server or cook or chef that you cant finish your meal and you are going to feed it to your dog when you get home. Im sure the dog will love it. But the food we cooked and busted our butts getting getting to you (to enjoy) should not go to the dogs. Or at least dont let that be known.