I always hated cats. It stemmed from a plethora of bad encounters I had with my childhood best friend's cat, Toby.

I had suffered years of that dreadful cat odor on bedspreads, sharp claws coming at my ankles from under tables and couches, and vicious hissing whenever I ventured too close to the orange tabby. Thanks to dear Toby, I declared myself as a dog person; no questions asked. That is, until one day my mother called to inform me that we had a new addition to the family. I will never forget staring through the window, in horror at the creature curled up on my couch. Those yellow eyes looking right back into mine. In that moment, I never would have guessed that I would fall completely, head over heels in love, with this cat.

Now, three years later, I can say with no shame that I am  equal part cat and dog lover, and no amount of scratching, food stealing, or early morning purring can change my mind. In fact, one of the best decisions I have ever made as a college student was to purchase our household cat, Hendrix. Even though he is a vicious beast who is no longer afraid of spray bottles, and will try and swallow anything remotely edible.

Through Hendrix, I have learned how to be responsible for another life. That has not only taught me a lot about myself, but it has also prepared me for whatever my future may hold, whether it's more cats, a puppy, or even children -- way, way down the road. Now, I am confident that I have the ability to take care of another living, breathing creature. Through Hendrix I’ve learned that a strict morning routine can make all the difference, and watching him grow definitely proves to be worth it. 

Despite all of the scratches, and the one hour a day that he recklessly runs around the house causing havoc, I have to say that Hendrix was the best decision our household ever made. Pets are the best because they can’t tell the difference between productivity and laziness, right or wrong, and they could truly care less about manners. All they really want is to get a nice scratch, eat something that they are absolutely not supposed to eat and play games; especially at the most inconvenient times. 

If ever you find yourself cruising the aisles of you’re local pet store, don’t ask yourself twice. Whether you are going to buy a beta fish, an iguana or a cuddly kitten, do not be afraid to commit to a creature, because soon enough you’ll see them as family and learn something you never thought you could from animals.