Sometimes, we find connections in other people or even places, but a lot of times we find connections with animals.

Reflecting back on my life, I can't remember a time when my family didn't have some sort of pet in the house. Whether it be a dog (or two), a cat, a pony, a chicken, a bunny, or even a fish, we always had some sort of little friend for me and my sister to play with. There's just something to be said about having an animal friend as a companion. For me, my dog was my biggest companion for a lot of reasons.

1. They don't have to understand, but they do.

Having such a bond with a furry friend is great because it's like they're there to listen when you want them to. Sometimes you just want to vent and you don't want to vent to actual people because well, let's face it, people give their opinions willingly, regardless of whether you want them to or not. It can be nice to just escape and just have someone to lean on.

2. They make sure you're always appreciated.

Every time you come home, they're the first ones to greet you when you walk through that door, and usually the last ones to kiss you goodnight. I don't know about you, but every single time I see that tail wag I get so excited because it makes me feel like I'm the best part of their day. Although it can be annoying, I love when my dogs follow me around because I feel like they want to be in my company and they want to be involved in my life, you know?

3. They give you a sense of responsibility and importance.

Having another living being to take care of really makes you take that responsibility in the sense that someone is depending on you to live, encouraging you to step up and take the role of a leader. A role like this also makes you feel important. It makes you feel like you matter and you're important because someone needs you. Having someone put their full trust and faith in you makes you want to be better for them. Having an animal gives you that push that people sometimes need.

4. They give you a sense of security.

Pets give us a sense of security in the way that they will always be here for you. No matter what, they always love and care for you on the bad days and the good ones. Some animals, like dogs, also give you security quite literally. My dog constantly protects me from harm and does not let anyone try to hurt me. Animals, pets specifically, are very selfless in that sense.

5. They provide you with unconditional love.

All pets give you everything. They spend their lives with you to bring your joy and protection. Not only that, they are so invested in your family that they become part of the family. They snuggle and hold you tight because they know that you're their true love. You're the one who takes care of them, so they're going to return the favor. They're loyal.

Having animals around growing up is probably the best thing to happen to me. It not only taught me everything I've mentioned, but it reminds me that as cliche as it is, all you need is love. These guys don't care about your job or socioeconomic status, they just want to be loved and to love. It's amazing when you think about how much of your life they're a part of.