I had 6 outdoor cats growing up. (lived in the country) They were amazing animals and very affectionate. Loved our family and followed us around when we were outside. That being said I am a dog person. I had an unbelievable half lab/border collie that was smarter than I was. I taught her to retrieve me beer from the fridge. (seriously what more could you ask for
) After she got hit by a car I thought I would never own another dog. However, my sister drug me to the humane society and I ended up with my current dog molly. She didnt replace my first dog but helped ease the greiving process. I now own 2 dogs and plan on owning that many till I die. When one passes away I will just get another pup. Why sit around and mourn your dog when you can spend that energy on some poor animal that needs a home. Just my two cents.