Pets, for me and a lot of other people, are members of the family. They are someone to love and cherish. They are always there for you when you need them without fail. I don't think I've ever been let down by one of my animals.

Sadly, though, a pet's life is much shorter than our own. It's a sad fact in life. Recently, my family had to put down our six-year-old English Mastiff, Sophia, due to bone cancer. Six years wasn't a lot of time, but it got me thinking.

I honestly can say losing a pet is the biggest heartbreak I've ever faced. Maybe I'm lucky in that sense. I haven't lost a family member that I can remember or were very close to, which I'm blessed for. Yes, I've experienced heartbreak in relationships, but nothing ever compares to losing a pet.

I've grown up around animals my entire life. I've had them pass all around me, but each time is just as painful as the last. No matter how long I had my pet, whether it was for a few months or twelve years, I've felt my heart shatter. During this thinking, I put together why.

Animals have literally never let me down.

My pets always know when I need them. They are beautiful creatures that just want to make you happy. To them, we are their world. I know that's cliche, but it is the truth. They care when no one else will.

I've realized I need to start loving my living pets a little harder. Sophia's diagnosis and death came on quickly. We never truly know when their time is coming.

Basically, what I am saying is simply love your pets. I know life can get hectic and crazy, but make time for them. Time with them goes by so fast and we don't even realize it. You are going to miss them when they are no longer there. Make your time with them count.