Perhaps it's the many benefits we get from having a pet. Whether a dog, cat, bird...or a more exotic creature, we find that extra time and attention rewards our efforts greatly. We get unconditional love and acceptance, devotion, and an animal companion that will be with us until its death. And we're not alone in our enjoyment of pets: A survey of 1,206 pet owners conducted in the United States and Canada by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) reveals that pets have become a large source for unconditional love in the household and nearly half of female respondents rely more on their family pet than a spouse or child for affection.
Another undisputed benefit is the health rewards from pet ownership. A 1993 report in the Harvard Health Letter explains that companion animals have more consistent behavior compared to our human companions, and give unconditional affection. The effect: lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety level for pet owners. Additionally, more than 60 percent of pets receive "as much attention as children," according to the 1994 American Animal Hospital Association pet owner survey.
Some childfree employees display their pets' pictures at work, and one commented, "My desk is covered with pictures of my pets. I always point them out to those who inquire that they are my family and that I don't have or want human kids. I've had a couple of people react negatively, but by and large, I've gotten neutral or positive feedback for thinking about it and making the good decision of not having kids since I don't want any." Co-workers who do have children sometimes display pictures of their spouses, children and pets, so it can be a rather easy way for the childfree to make comments about their own choice not to have children, but identify with the enjoyment of pets many do share.
As an adult, I've always had pets. And I know personally the special bond one forms with them - the joys and rewards they bring. For the childfree who have pets, I think we find an animal companion fulfills us in ways that enrich our lives greatly. A long walk in the park with our dog, watching an old movie with our cat curled up beside us, a peaceful ride through the forest on our horse - or whatever the activity, pets prove that devotion and unconditional affection are unlimited. In the realm of human relationships, this is not always the case. I believe the childfree know this - and perhaps this why our pets are so beloved and important in our lives.
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