Pets
Pets

Pets

Pets are at the center of today's American family. They are the "reliable old dogs" (so to speak) of the "fam" because they never let you down. They can always be counted on to solicit love and affection and offer the same, if not more, in return. Even if you can't see it, they smile when they see you, they rejoice when you return from a 10-minute trip to the store, and they have your daily routine down pat so as to properly greet you at every waking moment.

To some people, they're like children. To pet fanatics, they are children. They offer unconditional love, they always forgive, and they always stand by your side (unless, of course, you have a cat – then they do all they can to lovingly ignore you). It's easy to see why pets become our best friends. Whether it's a cat, dog, bird, hamster, ferret or reptile, your pet is a part of you. A big part of you.

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Rescue Pets

  • Pets for AdoptionAsk anyone who owns one and they'll tell you there is something special about rescue pets. They have a unique perspective on life. Most pets for adoption have been surrendered by former owners because they grew up to be adults and people think they aren't as cute anymore. They've had their little feelings hurt and are ready to start anew with a loving family. (*Note: adoptable pets end up being big old lovers!)

    Are you looking to get a pet? If so, pet adoption is the way to go. Hundreds of thousands of cats and dogs are surrendered to shelters every year and they are ready and willing to offer years and years of love and companionship. Your local animal shelter, Humane Society, or no-kill rescue group is the best place to go to find a new fur-baby. If you are looking for a specific breed, locate the breed-specific rescue group in your area. Before you take your new rescue pet home, be sure the shelter you are adopting from meets the standard requirements for a good animal shelter.

Names for Pets

  • Pets' NamesNow that you have your new rescue pet (whether it's from a shelter or elsewhere), it's time to start brainstorming names for pets. A recent trend in pet names is using human names. There are dogs and cats named Henry, Theodore, James, Jack, Lester, Mack, etc. And then there are more clever names for dogs and cats that are taken from favorite movies, books or cartoon characters such as Scout, Chewbacca (Chewy for short), and Pinky.

    When thinking of pets' names try to associate them with things like the pet's appearance, the season you bought him during, his size, his characteristics, and his favorite activities. There are many websites that can help you find pets' names. Another helpful tip: if you're looking for a unique pet name, avoid the all-too-common mantras like Shadow, Fluffy, Spot, Bear, Bandit, etc.

Virtual Pets

  • Cyber PetsIf for some reason you can't get a real pet, why not substitute with a virtual pet? Cyber pets have entered today's society with a panache and they "run" rampant all over the internet! They walk, they talk, they play and they nap just like real pets! You can name them, give them commands, pet them, and take care of them just like real pets, all with a few clicks of a mouse. Cyber pets respond to everything you do, too!

    Cyber pets come in all different shapes and sizes. You can adopt a fantasy creature, cyber dog, cat, search cyber kennels and catteries, choose country themes for horses, and more. There are even cyber pet clubs!

Pet Blogs

  • Pet & Animal BlogsWhile we're talking about the online world of pets, it's only fair to mention the concept that's all the rage: the pet blog. The pet blogosphere has taken the internet by storm and there are virtually thousands of dog blogs, cat blogs, and other animal blogs to choose from.

    There are two main types of animal blogs: one is written by a human about pets, and the other is written by a pet about pets. It seems that dogs and cats have become extremely intelligent in the 21st century and are fully able to type. They borrow their "humans'" computers and document their day-to-day lives.

    A very well-written pet blog with an engaging mix of humor, wit, information and pictures is ThoughtsFurPaws.

    Some very entertaining, pet-authored animal blogs are:

    Finally, some pet blogs that are strictly information based are:

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