I lost my first pet this past week, and I decided to write my article this week on why we all love our pets.

Pets become part of our families. We spend countless hours with them, take them on vacations with us, dress them in cute clothes, buy them the nicest toys, treats, beds, or whatever they need. We buy them cake and presents on their birthdays. We wrap their gifts for Christmas. We would do anything for our pets.

We definitely have a deep love for our pets, but the love our pets give to us is truly extraordinary. You can leave them at home alone all day, but when you get home, they are still going to meet us at the door. They want to spend time with you no matter what kind of day you have had or what kind of mood you are in. They love us unconditionally and are loyal companions.

Pets can feel voids in our lives. They hold special places in our hearts, and losing them is a pain that cuts deep. However, we can always hold on to our memories and look back and smile. There is truly nothing like the love of a pet.

Here's a few pictures of some of my pets from the past and present: