Surprise! Americans Love Their Pets

I bet that's no surprise to you. Not to me, either. I was reading a blog over the weekend that talked about PBS's Nature series and described one show, "Why We Love Cats and Dogs." Of course, it started out with, "some people are cat people, some people are dog people." But, it didn't say - some people are just pet people.

That's us. We love cats and dogs. Cats are seen as easier to care for - and less trouble, but truth is, they require just as much attention as dogs. Lots of love and affection, regular grooming, vet visits, and feeding. The only difference is - most of us don't walk our cats. I say "most" because there are people who put harnesses on their cats, and walk'em around the neighborhood.

And, the cats tolerate it. (who says you can't train cats?) 

Did you know that Americans own 73 million dogs and 90 million cats? That's what the Nature site says, anyway. Seems like an awfully lot. I've never had more than 2 cats at a time. My daughter has three and probably wishes she could have more, but Bailey, Bella, and Booger keep her plenty busy - so she doesn't need any more. (don't tell her I said that - she doesn't like having her Mom tell her what to do).

I don't know exactly what PBS says about why we love our cats and dogs but I think it's because they give us unconditional love back. They don't care what we smell like, or how funny we look, or if we get too fat - they just want to be with us, no matter what. Cats are sometimes a little more aloof than dogs, but even cats enjoy a good rub now and then.

My cat, Wabby, who is Top Dog since my dear Carmie passed, has become pretty demanding in the "rub me, rub me" department. She jumps up on our bed every night when we're watching TV and pretty much does everything she can (or has to do) to distract us from whatever show we're watching, so she can get petted. Luckily, we're happy to oblige.

The PBS show has great videos showing how different people are with their dogs and cats. You will enjoy it - hop over and watch it online.

Comments

[Karina A.]

To use a popular movie, I'll probably say that we love them so much because "they complete us". Thanks for sharing these links with us! Jumping to PBS now!