The issue: maybe you can't have children, or are afraid to have one because they grow up and leave you; or maybe you just don't want kids, but are tired of being lonely. Or maybe you want kids someday, but for the time being want something that will teach you responsibility. If this is you, then here are some reasons why having a pet is almost as equivalent as having a child.

1. They make messes.

Much like a baby, animals make messes. Whether they left a nice surprise on the floor, in your closet, or knocked over that vase your grandmother gave you - it's always a surprise. The best part is that you are the one who has to clean it up since they are incapable.

2. They don't listen.

Well, they do sometimes, but they have no idea what you are saying or at least pretend they don't. When your pet is getting into the garbage or trying to get into food, it's almost as if they hear nothing. Babies do the same, although they might not have as much of an excuse (ya know, considering pets are a different species and all).

3. They depend on you for everything.

Having a baby and taking of a pet are both huge responsibilities. You get the good times and also the bad. They are not just to look at and snuggle with. They cannot provide for themselves, meaning you have to provide shelter, food, toys, groom them, and change their diapers/litterbox/pick up the doo-doo in the yard. You can't leave for 2 weeks to go on vacay without bringing them along, or finding someone to take care of them. You have to sacrifice a lot to have these special little people in your life, so before bringing one into your home (or the world) make sure to consider those factors.

4. You don't know what they really want.

You can ask "What's wrong?!" as many times as you want, but you will not get a straight answer. All babies are different; some won't use a nookie, some can't eat certain foods or be breast fed; you have to blindly figure out what the problem is. Same goes for pets. When a pet is upset, good luck getting to the bottom of it. It is especially hard because no matter how old they get, they can't speak human, so you just have to use the trial and error method until you see results.

5. They make great cuddle buddies.

THIS IS A FACT. Babies are great cuddlers, almost every single one of them. Guaranteed. You may not be as successful with pets, because there are so many different personalities. Also, there isn't that motherly-bond with a pet compared to a real baby. But if you get lucky, your furry friend will love to get under the covers with you and take a nap, or lay next to you while you chill on the couch.

6. They cost money.

Relating back to the responsibilities, along with that comes a price. It could be hefty, or it could be light. You have to buy them food to survive, obviously. Babies come with a price you most likely will never escape for the rest of your life - or at least until they turn 18. Diapers, clothes (which they rapidly grow out of,) body care products, education, toys, technology, miscellaneous items and medical bills which can be minimal or in unfortunate events, a debt sentence. For pets, it's a lot less, but still never ending. Each pet has special needs; that may be litter, bedding, a cage, special food, you may need to get them fixed, other veterinary visits, and additional items pertaining to each individual pet.

7. They are so worth it.

Regardless of the hoops you may have to jump through to take care of your baby or pet, they make it all worth it at the end of the day. They are your pride and joy - your babies! Furry or not furry. Some people may argue that having a real baby versus a pet is not comparable, but I beg to differ. A pet is essentially a baby that never grows up. Either way, we never stop loving and caring for them, no matter how hard times get.

If you think you are ready to take in a furry friend, consider adoption! Make sure to check you local humane society or pet stores to save an animal in need of a home.