Throughout history, animals have been an integral part in lives of people all over the world.

Domesticated animals bring boundless bliss to people, who often use them to hunt with, to show or for companionship.

For instance, dogs and various types of birds often were domesticated in ancient Rome. Evidence that those animals were utilized as a means of relaxation and comfort can be found on many sculptures and mosaics saved from that period of time. The Greyhound, formerly called the Italian Greyhound, is an ancient dog breed still popular today; they were used as “hot pillows” for Romans who found themselves shivering from a cold. Dogs in ancient Rome always had names, unlike the cats who often remained without a name. Popular names for dogs in that era are Sila, Titus, Juba and Sasca.

4,000 years ago, cats are rumored to have first been domesticated by the Egyptians.

Cats quickly became a source of esteem and idolization in ancient Egypt, although they were initially used as rodent chasers. Cats are clearly illustrated as an important part of day-to-day life on some Egyptian tomb scenes. To shield owners from bad luck and evil spirits, statues of cats were also put in front of people’s homes. The feline goddess that protected all cats and children was named Bastet. Ancient Egyptian law reflected the love and admiration the people had for cats; harming a feline warranted a death sentence to the perpetrator. Armies were instructed to go on reconnaissance missions to retrieve smuggled cats from nearby countries; exporting cats out of Egypt was illegal.

It has been a long time since people started keeping fish and reptiles as pets as well. Evidence of goldfish kept as pets exists as far back as 220-390 B.C. during the Chun dynasty. People of high social rankings such as Buddhist monks or those belonging to royalty usually bred and raised goldfish. Contained in bowls or other glass containers, goldfish became more commonplace in lots of households during the Ming dynasty Their popularity expanded, and these “golden carps” began to multiply; they were eventually exported to Europe and Japan during the 15th century. It was rumored that luck and prosperity resulted from having a fish in the household. Their gracious movements were also said to aid in relaxation and help with stress relief.

In all sorts of times and areas, animals have acted as wonderful companions and partners for individuals.

A lot of us cannot currently imagine living if wer’e deprived of a pet. However, it is important to remember that we are accountable for the pets we take in. Careful preparation is required before a pet is obtained and should not be a decision made off the cuff. Our pets count on us to give them a joyful and healthful home. Cats and dogs need attention and love and having them is not to be taken lightly. Like the people of the past, we need to show the same degree of TLC to a pet. In today’s times we are able to get all the best playthings, treats and other bells and whistles for our cats and dogs. So, it is extremely simple and basically inexpensive to spoil our pets. In addition to buying all these things for them, make sure we also show them love and appreciation in return for all they do for us.

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