Simply put, animals are awesome. In a recent conversation with a new friend, I realized that I have never lived my life without a dog. Most of these years, I had cats too. It doesn't matter if my dog is barking at me or my cat is walking under me when I'm trying to get ready in the morning. Here's five reasons that animals will always have your back.

1. They understand your emotions.

I have come home saddened and crushed by the world, and had a dog or cat trying to cuddle or kiss me. They speak their own language but they are insanely capable of experiencing empathy and acting on it. Alternatively, I have come home as happy as I could be, and had a furry pal jumping around the house with me.

2. Animals are brilliant!

They're incredibly intuitive and have numerous abilities. They are highly functioning creatures and are intelligent enough to have mastered the capability to communicate with us despite not being able to speak our language!

3. Dinner companions!

Animals are the best dinner companions! I have never had a meal alone at home.

4. They keep you warm.

I have always had a cuddle companion, and they keep me quite warm! Sometimes it's rough sharing a bed with a sprawled out dog, or with a cat that wants to sleep on my head, but I would rather stay warm with my buddy than not.

5. They have your back.

My animals don't judge me and they're happy when I come home. That's all they need from me - my presence (okay, and some food and stuff). Whether it's a bad day or a good day, they're always willing to sit with me through it.

Animals are amazing little friends that are there, forever and always. Just like any other relationship, you have to give in order to get something in return, but that something is love and affection.