Growing up every child wants to have a pet. Whether it be a puppy, a kitten, or a bunny, not a day went by in your childhood where you didn’t think about owning your own fluffy little animal. But, you were never told about the impact that they would have on your life. As a child you only think about the cuteness and the bragging rights you will be able to have. It turns out to be much much more than that.

I myself know I wouldn’t have been able to get through some things in life without my pets by my side. They are the best “person” to vent to, cuddle with, and even cry to. No matter what you do they will always be there for you. They are someone you can always count on to be there.

You grow up with this figure in your life who is always by your side and you never think once to thank them. It’s so silly how so much love can be shown without a single word shared. I don’t know what I would do without them by my side, and I can’t imagine what my life will be like without them. They are a happy face to always come home to, a pick me up on a bad day, and a bubbly attitude to raise your spirits. They are the absolute best to tell secrets to (I mean, who are they going to tell?) They are always there to play with you, to cuddle, and to show affection when you need it.

Some people say they aren't animal people, and don't think they would be able to take care of it. But the thing is that by taking care of them, they then take care of you. Animals can sense your emotion, especially if they've been living with you for a while. Pets like dogs and cats will try to make you feel better when you're sad, always trying to raise your spirits. They even help relieve stress. So when people say they aren't animal people, I don't understand. How could you not want a bubbly little face always by your side cheering you up?

So this is a thank you to the pet(s) that got me through nearly everything. Thank you for being by my side for the rough family times, the awkward middle school years and the rough high school ones. Thank you for helping me through the first hard breakup, the stupid boys, and the emotional days. Thank you for always being reliable, giving me unconditional love and never leaving my side. Even though you may annoy me sometimes, thank you for the nose nudges to the arm, the rubbing against my legs, the head tilts, and the sitting on my lap (even though you are way too big to do so) when I was upset. Thank you for always being there to listen to my rants and not giving me judgmental comments about them. Thank you for never leaving my side. Thank you for being my best friend.