Man, animals are great. Ranging from your average furry four legged friend, to your scale covered buddy, even your winged companion, there has to be some sort of domesticated animal you can love. Personally, I got my little buddy who can sometimes be a complete d-bag Luccifur.

When he isn't biting my hand for petting him too much, or meowing at my door because it is three in the morning and he decided he was bored, we're hanging out. He isn't the easiest cat to take care of and the idea of supporting another living thing's life is semi-horrifying, but I'm blessed to take care of him.

Part of me is always scared. Raising an animal pales in comparison to raising a child, but I believe I would worry regardless of whether or not my baby had paws. Luccifur needs to eat, he needs water, he's a cat but I have to make sure he accidentally doesn't swallow a grape. When I'm out or at work, he's probably alone trying to fight my Husky/Collie mix, Koda, who usually goes easy on him. I've left parties because I miss my cat, and I have no shame in that regard.

I have an obligation. An obligation to keep this somewhat defenseless animal alive. If I don't feed him, he won't eat. If I'm not playing with him, he might get destructive and break something. My responsibility is this little cat. Without me, who knows where Luccifur ends up.

That's the twisted beauty of owning a pet. The realization that this small creature NEEDS you. No matter how terrible your day went, or how horrific you feel, something finds you as necessary. They may not be able to express the fact, but they sure do.

Owning a pet is amazing The sole responsibility at first is a frightening, but the anxiety gets outweighed by the rewards. Adopt an animal from your local animal shelter after reading up on how to properly care for them. Take pride in your ability to raise a living creature, it may often be grounding, especially if you need some control in your life. You might think you're impacting their life, but in reality you're impacting yours just as much.