If I did not have pets

If I did not have pets...

1. I could walk around the yard barefoot in safety.

2. My house could be carpeted instead of tiled and laminated.

3. All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture, and cars would be free of pet hair.

4. When the doorbell rings, it wouldn't sound like the humane society kennels.

5. When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door without wading through furry bodies who beat me there or who are running away to escape the strangers.

6. I could sit on the couch the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.

7. I would not have strange presents under my Christmas tree...like dog bones, stuffed animals, little balls and string toys. OR have to answer to people why I wrap them.

8. I would not be on a first name basis with three vets.

9. The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: "out", "sit", "down","come", "no", "stay", and "leave him/her/it ALONE".

10. My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates or barriers.

11. My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, dog treats and an extra leash.

12. I would no longer have to spell the words B-A-L-L or F-R-I-S-B-E- E or W-A-L-K or T-R-E-A-T-S.

13. I would not have as many leaves INSIDE my house as outside.

14. I would not look strangely at people who think having their ONE pet ties them down too much.

15. I'd look forward to Spring and the melting of the snow instead of dreading "mud season".

16. I would not have to answer the question "Why do I have so many animals?" from people who will never have the joy in their life of knowing they are loved unconditionally by something as close to an angel as they will ever get.

17. How empty my life would be.