by Len Morse

Created on: October 28, 2009

The love of a pet is pure and unconditional. Over time, you will learn each other's personalities, and if you're good to your furry friend, s/he will return your love in kind. Not everyone understands pets, but those who do know that a pet's love is to be cherished and respected as much as that of a close family member or friend.

== Greetings, Human ==

You come home from a hard day at work and there s/he is - your family pet. Sometimes our pets are the first ones to greet us at the door, and not just because they're hungry, although that is a popular reason. No, sometimes the four-legged child is simply happy to see us.

Many cats meow and rub against everything in sight, or flop onto the floor for a belly rub; many dogs jump around excitedly, tails wagging and paws skating over the floor. Almost any able-bodied, loving pet not kept in a cage or tank will make a big deal of your arrival home.

== Happiness Is ==

For some, a purring cat is the most relaxing, naturally occurring sound ever to be experienced. Usually, when a cat is completely satisfied and on full throttle, the owner can put an ear against the furry body and listen: The sound is akin to an idling Harley, but remains calming and sweet.

For others, the licking tongue and happy sounds from a jumping dog provide inner warmth like no other. Excitement can be a sign of happiness and contentment in pets, and countless wagging tails show dog owners the world over how delighted their canine friends are to see them.

Then there are other people who revel in the cute chirping, whistling, and twittering of a parakeet or other bird. When you walk in the door, how great is it to hear your feathered companion (if it can emulate human speech) say something like, "Rrrauk! Welcome home!"

== Playtime ==

I haven't encountered one happy, healthy pet that didn't like to get rambunctious and play. A variety of toys can help stimulate the mind as well as the body, depending on the pet's personality and age. Your pet may not directly show it, but if s/he is happily gnawing on a chew toy or scampering after some plushy creation, s/he is indirectly showing appreciation for your efforts.

When you pet decides it is playtime and drops a favorite toy at your feet, remember to keep an open mind, since this decision may not exactly coincide with your own work/rest/play/meal time. If your cat, dog, or other pet is still learning the house rules, gently and firmly continue enforcing them, since most animals learn by association and

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