One thing I’ve come to realize about the Cup of Jo community is our fondness for pets. During house tours featuring a reserved cat or a cuddly dog, it’s only a matter of minutes before I’m inundated with comments asking “What are the cat/pup’s name/backstory/zodiac sign?!” Therefore, let’s elevate our serotonin levels and discuss why our furry friends are so wonderful. Here are 11 fantastic reader comments…
On unconditional love:
“As a young, single person, I walked into a shelter, and a dog stretched his paw through the crate, touched my hand, and changed my life forever. Dogs have a remarkable ability to bring out the best in us. He’s grown fond of my niece and loves her sticky hands and discarded Nutri-Grain bars. He was the first being outside my family to love me without conditions. It’s still just the two of us, but sometimes I imagine him meeting the others I will love down the line.” — Kate
“Our family brought home a puppy, and I feel a bit ashamed to admit that, for a time, I wasn’t fond of him. He nipped at the kids, chewed on shoes, and annoyed our older dog. However, he gradually wiggled his way into my heart, flaws and all. His enthusiastic tail wag when he sees me, the way he cuddles up close, and his excitement for his leash when he suspects a fun outing have made it impossible for me not to love him. Now, I’m his forever.” — Lindsay
On being there for one another:
“Wilson the hamster helped me reach my running goals during quarantine. I learned that hamsters can run five miles a night, and there was no way I was going to let a hamster or 2020 outdo me. So, I logged five miles daily on my treadmill. If I was ever reluctant to run, I just listened for Wilson’s wheel to know it was time to go. I wrapped up the year with 2039 miles under my belt.” — Rebecca
“I was working from home on a particularly tough day when I received an email about a collapsed deal — that broke the camel’s back! I burst into tears, and my pug promptly jumped onto the couch, resting her paws on my shoulders and licking my face. It felt like having a loved one reassure me that everything would be alright.” — Christine
On pets mirroring us:
“I read that for dogs, sniffing is akin to reading books. So, it brings me joy to see my dog taking extra sniffs; it’s heartwarming to think of her ‘reading’.” — Sadie
“When our dog hit two years of age, I called my husband in a panic, convinced something was wrong because he spent two full mornings sleeping on the couch. It seemed out of character for him. My husband thought for a moment and then said, ‘Well, it sounds like we don’t have a puppy anymore. We’ve got a dog now.’” — Rachel
On daily rituals:
“Our Basset mix is a couch-loving, bacon-devouring cuddle bug. Our favorite nightly ritual as a family is watching Roy rearranging the couch pillows for his optimal comfort.” — Sarah
“Every morning as I leave, I tell my husband I love him, then my dog that I love him more, and finally my cat that I love him most. Having pets truly enhances this joyful life.” — Joanna
On lessons learned from pets:
“Nancy Tillman authored an enchanting book for children titled The Heaven of Animals. I read it while pregnant and found myself emotional in the middle of Costco. Years later, one of my kids received it, and I still can’t read it without tears, particularly after losing our dear Goldie. The line that always moves me: ‘When angels whisper in animal ears, it is your voice that each animal hears.’” — Jill
“Although I’m an atheist, this quote from a fantastic documentary about the street cats of Istanbul, uttered by a rugged Turkish sailor, sent shivers down my spine: ‘God brings us closer to him in different ways. For me, it was these animals. I guess I was deserving of his love.’ — Lauren
“On my son’s first birthday, my husband and I shared ‘I Ask Percy How I Should Live My Life’ by Mary Oliver, which emphasizes the essence of why dogs are pure love.” — Ari
I Ask Percy How I Should Live My Life
by Mary Oliver
Love, love, love, says Percy.
And rush as swiftly as you can
along the bright beach, or the debris, or the dust.
Then, rest.
Offer up your body heat, your pulsing heart.
Then, believe.
What about you? How have pets enriched your life? We’d love to listen.
P.S. 14 adorable quarantine pets and human anatomy through my dog’s eyes.
(Photo by MaaHoo/Stocksy.)
**Perspectives from 11 Readers on Pet Ownership | Cup of Jo**
Pet ownership is a path filled with joy, challenges, and deep life lessons. In a recent write-up on the beloved lifestyle blog, Cup of Jo, titled “Perspectives from 11 Readers on Pet Ownership,” personal tales from pet owners offer an array of insights that showcase the complex nature of living with animals. Here, we highlight some key takeaways shared by these readers, illuminating both the emotional and practical dimensions of having pets.
**1. Companionship and Emotional Support**
Numerous readers highlighted the profound companionship that pets offer. For those living alone or navigating tough times, pets often serve as a steadfast source of emotional comfort. One reader recounted how her dog aided in managing anxiety, providing a reassuring presence that alleviated her feelings of isolation. This sentiment resonates deeply with many pet owners who draw strength from the unwavering love that animals provide.
**2. The Joys of Routine**
Having a pet often introduces a sense of order and routine into daily life. Several readers noted how their pets’ needs for consistent feeding, walks, and playtimes prompted them to adopt a more regimented lifestyle. This structure can be especially helpful for individuals who find it difficult to maintain consistency in their daily schedules, as pets naturally encourage a more organized way of living.
**3. The Responsibilities of Pet Ownership**
Despite the myriad joys of pet ownership, readers also recognized the significant responsibilities that accompany it. From unexpected vet expenses to the time investment required for training and care, having a pet brings its own set of challenges. One reader shared her experience with the financial burdens of her cat’s medical issues, underscoring the importance of being ready for such responsibilities. This serves as a reminder for potential pet owners to reflect carefully on their preparedness for such commitments.
**4. The Silent Bond**
The non-verbal interactions between pets and their owners emerged as a common theme in the readers’ reflections. Many described the unique ways in which their pets convey love and understanding, whether through a gentle nuzzle or playful antics. This connection, transcending spoken language, often cultivates a deep bond that enriches both the pet’s and the owner’s lives.
**5. Lessons in Patience and Empathy**
Pet ownership imparts valuable insights into patience and empathy. Readers relayed narratives of how caring for their pets encouraged them to develop a heightened awareness of another being’s needs and feelings. This experience often translates into more compassionate interactions with people, as pet owners come to recognize the significance of patience and understanding in relationships.
**6. Family Dynamics and Pets**
For households, pets can significantly influence dynamics and foster a sense of togetherness. Several readers commented on how their pets became beloved members of the family, adding joy and laughter to daily life. Pets can also play a pivotal role in teaching kids about responsibility and empathy, as they learn to nurture and respect another living creature.
**7. The Pain of Loss**
Inevitably, the life spans of pets are shorter than those of humans, and readers conveyed heartfelt reflections on the sorrow accompanying the loss of a cherished animal companion. While this aspect of pet ownership can be heartbreaking, it also underscores the depth of the bond formed. Many readers expressed gratitude for the moments spent with their pets, treasuring the memories and lessons gathered along the way.
**Conclusion**
The perspectives shared by Cup of Jo’s readers create a vivid portrayal of the experience of pet ownership. From the joys of companionship to the responsibilities involved, sharing life with a pet is a journey rich in meaning. Whether you’re a long-time pet parent or contemplating welcoming a furry friend into your life, these insights provide valuable reflections on the significant ways pets can impact our lives. As demonstrated by these readers, the love and lessons offered by pets are truly invaluable.
