According to Ben Williams, “There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.” To many of us, our pets provide us with comfort, friendship, companionship, and unconditional love. Pets come in a variety of forms; mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish, or any animal you could think of. Some people prefer to have classic pets such as dogs, but others prefer more exotic pets like monkeys or tarantulas. Nonetheless, pets have a special place in the hearts of loving pet owners regardless of what species they are. 

It turns out that even at Greenup County High School (where most students enjoy shooting animals rather than caring for them), many pet owners have interesting and charismatic stories to tell. One of our substitute teachers, Mrs. Barber, had stories to tell of her pet. When I asked what her favorite pet has been, she responded and said “A dog; he was such a good dog and got me through a hard time in my life.” It turns out that her dog also “ate up everything, chewed electrical cords, and got older and wanted to “date” one of [her] neighbor’s hunting dogs that were a different breed than him!” When I asked her what kind of pet she would want if she could choose, she said “another Golden Retriever because Bailey (her dog) had died.”

One of our own teachers, Ms. Adkins, isn’t as sweet as she seems! It turns out that Ms. Adkins fed sliced ham to a pet pig! The poor thing didn’t know what he was eating! Also, she informed me that her brother had a pet alligator that took residence in the bathtub. 

I also interviewed senior Emilee Rubio about her pet experiences. When I asked her what the oddest pet she’s heard of, she replied with one of her own! “An iridescent shark; they grow to be about 4 feet and have a tendency to faint.”, she says. “My shark kept fainting one night and I woke up the next morning and he had fainted himself to death!”, Emilee concluded. I asked her what pet she’d love to have and she decided on a sugar glider.

I asked senior Katie Coldiron if a pet could be considered a friend. She said, “I guess, as long as you don’t try to eat it.” Katie said she would like to have a pet chameleon “because it doesn’t need camo. It’s name would be Patrick.” I also asked Katie why people should get pets in the first place. She says that “it builds character and teaches you to love; it gives you an appreciation for your animal brethren.” When I asked what has been her favorite pet, she replied “My dog Red because even though she’s dead, she keeps making appearances...” 

Myself, an owner of six wonderful pets, loves to see others who share an interest in wonderful furry (or scaly) friends. Have a wonderful day, and don’t forget your friend at home waiting for you. :)