I grew up with everything from lizards to rabbits to hudkies to lab hound mixes. I have never not had a pet. I currently have 3 male cats, two whom have lived with small dogs and medium dogs. They aren't agressive just scardy cats. I believe animals having a special intuition when it comes to their humans. When I went to college my baby I had since 3rd grade took a turn for the worse. My mom told me to come home, he waited for me and passed in my arms. But he didn't let go until he said good bye. Same when we're sad or happy they have a way of knowing. They also have a way of telling us when they need something as long as you listen. I currently watch a small poodle a couple days a week just to spend time while mom works, a little TLC is all they need.