The dog vs. cat debate continues
PET BULLETIN
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
By Carolyn Cheney
Director
Are dogs better pets than cats? Several weeks ago we did an article about why some folks prefer cats as pets rather than dogs. This is dogs’ week, and why some prefer dogs as pets.
After researching the “Business Insider” and the “Animalzone,” I present the following reasons why dogs are preferred by some.
Dog owners laugh a lot more than cat owners because of the dogs’ antics. They do the strangest things some days. I have a dog who believes whenever someone goes into the bathroom, he needs to be with them, and this includes guests, which is a very embarrassing. If he is not let in, he sits outside the door and whines.
It is easier to train a dog than a cat. A perfect example is walking the dog with a leash. Often walking with your dog gives you exercise and sometimes may increase your social life. It seems many folks love to talk “dogs” when they are walking. Here on the walking path in Presque Isle, I have seen folks visiting while walking their dogs.
Dog people love to talk about dogs. We don’t see many cats walking on a leash; although I used to try with my Cuddles, but she put her brakes on and wouldn’t budge an inch no matter how much coaxing I did.
It is a given that a dog can be a wonderful watchdog. A barking dog is a lot more effective than a meowing cat. Even a small dog with a good bark can ward off unwanted guests. Barking is a great deterrent to preventing a home invasion and robbery. Dogs are also known to wake their owners when there is a fire in the house.
Dogs will listen! They will nod their heads and wag their tails. They so want to please “their parents.” They are there to greet you when you get home and they are so happy to see you after being alone for a period of time.
My grandchildren get off the bus at my home some days and I say to my dog, “Henry, the kids are going to be here in a few minutes,” and he runs to the same window each time, and he faithfully stands there until the bus stops. He is so excited to see them he can hardly contain himself.
Dogs show such compassion, loyalty and love to their owners. If you are not feeling well, they sense that and stay right with you. Dogs are just amazing pets.
Dogs are wonderful, loving companions. Some will go swimming with you, play catch, play Frisbee and do whatever it takes to be with you. They do not complain as long as they can be with you. They are also wonderful playmates for children.
Both dogs and cats are great pets, and which one to have is a personal choice. Many folks have both.
Please visit us at the Central Aroostook Humane Society, 26 Cross St., Presque Isle. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10-4, closing for lunch 12-12:30. Please be responsible: Spay and neuter your pets!
Carolyn Cheney is a director of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
