Why are pet so important to us?

United States
January 28, 2011 8:00am CST
I have been a pet owner forever. I had 3 dashhounds & 2 cats. I had to have one of my dog put to sleep on Tuesday. He was 17-years old and was have a hard time going up and down the step. On Tuesday, he fell down the steps and hurt his back. He couldn't walk, he had to drag his hind legs and was in tremendous pain. I felt so bad for him. He fell at 4 a.m. and the vet wouldn't let us bring it in until 8 a.m. he had to suffer. I loved that little dog. I hope I did the right thing, by putting him to sleep. I just didn't want him to have to suffer just so I could keep him around. What would you have done?
2 people like this
10 responses
@TrvlArrngr (4045)
• United States
29 Jan 11
I am sorry that you had to go through that. I have had to put 2 pets to sleep and even though it is painful, I would not ever consider not having a dog or two. They give you unconditional love and the stress of the day away when they greet you with all their tail wagging and jumping and licking.
• United States
29 Jan 11
You are absolutely right. When I come my littles dogs great me at the door and I can hear them barking from excitement before I open the door. They make my day. Pets just make things better.
@inu1711 (5285)
• Romania
28 Jan 11
Hello Sswallace and welcome to mylot! I'm sorry to hear about your dear wiener. You made the right decision for him. I had to made that decision for my dog, too. I know it's heartbreaking but if we can't ease their pain, this is the best thing we can do for them. Let's hope he's in a better place now, where he doesn't suffer from the back pain. You have the other two dachshunds and the cats, enjoy them as much as you can while they are young and healthy.
• United States
29 Jan 11
I will enjoy my remaining pets. Thanks for the comment about making the right decision.
@sizzle3000 (3036)
• United States
28 Jan 11
I think that pets are important to us because they are the ones that don't judge you and they just give you unconditional love. If it wasn't for my allergies I'd have so many pets and not just buying them but adopting them. As for what you did, I do agree with you. No one wants to see anyone suffer least of all an animal that drs can't even make comfertable. You did the right thing, I would have done the same.
• United States
29 Jan 11
The unconditional love my pets supply is unmeasureable.
@mokkka (881)
• Bulgaria
28 Jan 11
I may say that my cats are so important to me just because they make me feel relaxed.They are so gentle and kind animals that I cannot stop myself hugging even a cat from the street.Even if there is nobody home I may talk to them and they seem as if they would answer but they just can't.I am sure in fact they understand my words.
• United States
29 Jan 11
I talk to my pets also. I believe they understand because they get so excited when I'm talking to them.
@jonnifc (1017)
• Philippines
28 Feb 11
I would have done the same. Even if it hurts me so much, it's the best for him. In the end, it's not about us, right? We would always want what's best for our pet. I have 2 dogs myself. I consider them my babies. I tear up everytime I think about one of them getting sick or worse. They are family. They make me so happy because they are always happy and excited to see me. (Gosh, I'm tearing up now ) They look at me with nothing but love in their eyes. How could I not reciprocate that? I am so blessed to have them in my life. They were my companions when I had no one else.
@e_mendo2 (127)
• United States
28 Jan 11
I would have done the exact same thing as you, when an animal is suffering like that then the only humane thing to do is put them down. I have kittens and I absolutely love them, it's like having family around and it gives us something to care for and connect with. We are just naturally drawn to pets.
• United States
29 Jan 11
I love fact that you consider your pets family. I do too. They are my babies and they know it.
• United States
5 Feb 11
Sorry to hear of the loss of your dog.. it's a terrible thing to lose a pet after so many years.. Did the vet suggest no surgery? Was he that far off that he had to be put to sleep? I am sad for you ..I love all animals. .and seems that the neighborhood cats know of this.. Beside my own indoor cats.. word has gotten round in catland that will give a nibble or two.. I don't know what I would have done but . Iwould probably first see if there was absolutely nothing to do to save his life.. Joy
@tonyllenium (6252)
• Italy
29 Jan 11
probbaly because they are a living creatures and so they can give you feelings with their particular interaction and communication!!in many cases they will be nice and funny and may be they can give you a smile doing simple things...so may eb for that many peple like their pets.
@sender621 (14894)
• United States
29 Jan 11
I believe that our pets are so important to us because they are such a big part of our lives. they are often considered to be members of the family. Giving love and care to our pets can almost be as important as taking care of our children.
• Philippines
28 Feb 11
I think what makes pet so important is the kind of happiness they bring in our lives. They are heaven sent. You know I just realize just now, how we should be thankful for having a chance of having the heart to love a pet and the chance of being loved in return. I have a hamster now, his name is Linus. He is so cute, his color is white and when he don't stand or sit he looks like a snow ball. He just as small as my fist but the happiness he brought to me and to my family is more than as big as me. I understand when you felt bad because your pet was hurting. You are so lucky to be one of the people who are sensitive enough. I remember my neighbor who intentionally pour boiling oil on a cat. I was so hurt, I felt the pain of the poor cat. I really condone what she did.