I have had animals all growing up from dogs, cats and birds. Animals were always apart of our family. I recently had to get rid of my tea cup chichuhaha dur to where I was moving, that was in 2012 so not that recent but it feels like it. The dog in my profile pic is moms wonderful Yorkie Ms Lucy Pearle and she has been a wonderful help when I was going through health issues. Animals love unconditionally, no matter how their day has been when they see a face need of love they give it with no questions asked. Who wouldnt wanna be around that!? Animals are also health healing and they always seem to know when someone needs a good lick lol!