When I was 18, the love of my life (up until that point, anyway) and first love broke up with me as he headed off to college. The very next night, my 16-year-old dog died in her sleep as I held her in my lap. The boy, I got over, but the dog still holds a special place in my heart.

As a dog owner, I was surprised by the recent study that pet owners tend to be more overweight than their non-animal loving counterparts. My dog loves to be active -- she dissolves into a nervous tail-wagging breakdown at the mere mention of a walk and is up for a game of fetch 24 hours a day. She doesn't get nearly the attention she deserves, but I think we tend to be more active because of her.

In any case, what didn't surprise me was this piece touting the emotional benefits of pet ownership. In fact, some studies have found that just petting an animal can lower the stress hormone cortisol in some people. Dogs -- friendly and instant conversation pieces -- also help people to be social and drive away loneliness. Even watching a fish tank can soothe and calm a restless mind. One theory is that nurturing and being responsible for another creature creates the unique bond between pet and owner. Personally, I think that it's the unconditional love a pet can give you. What pet owner hasn't come home from a long day at work and been forced to smile at the four-legged welcoming committee waiting for them at the door?
Before you run out and adopt a dog/cat/bird/hamster, remember that pet ownership isn't all about tail wagging and fun runs through the park. Dogs bark, cats scratch, and every animal needs to be fed and cleaned up after. Pets require a lot of care, and anyone seeking to adopt a pet should be well informed about exactly how much time and attention your new family member will need. But I think for most of us, the emotional benefits far outweigh the work.