I've also been told they're good companions. But I wonder. A lot of the cats I've seen have either been so independent that they don't care if a human is around, or they are so scared they won't even let you near them. I don't know if this is normal, but it's my experience. I knew a cat that would hide over the refrigerator every time I came into my friend's house. I knew another cat that treated me as if I didn't exist. I don't think that's the kind of pet I want. I want a pet that is interactive all the time, not just when its mood feels like it. Cats require all the same shots, collars, and food that dogs need, as well as litter boxes. They aren't cheaper than dogs, even if they are supposedly cleaner and more self sustaining. But I want a companion, not a self-sustaining animal. I know cats can kill mice and other rodents, but actually I like mice and don't want them harmed. Besides, my best friend is allergic to cat hair. Cats make her eyes water, even short-haired ones. I don't want her to feel uncomfortable coming over to my place. Even if she wasn't allergic, I'd still choose a dog. Dogs are amazing. They take time and money to care for, like any pet, but I'm ready to make that sacrifice. When I'm at a park, I envy the people with dogs. They get to throw Frisbees or watch their dogs run around gleefully on the grass. A lot of times, they talk to other dog owners, and I've noticed that it can be a good way of connecting with other people. I want that connection. it's an identity I lack. You can't really take cats on walks, and certainly not birds. Dogs are...

Once they are trained, they are easy to care for. Mainly you just have to do simple things, like feed and walk them. They provide exactly the companionship I'm seeking. Not nearly as autonomous as cats, they make up for this in verve. I can have a dog and still have it be naturally what it is, so it's ethical. Dogs are good guardians as well. At night I can walk with one and feel more protected -- something cats don't afford. Dogs are great for teaching good caretaking skills, better than cats. Some people even use them to prepare for having children, because one has to be responsible when one has a dog. I've never heard of people getting a cat for this. I want that responsibility, which will stretch me. And I want to coddle, which a cat may not allow me to do. I get lonely, and dogs are more social than cats this way. I think a dog will help me by giving me something to talk to when I don't have others around. More than any animal, dogs seem to bring joy into their owners' lives. One never sees a disgruntled dog owner.
Come to think of it, you are in the same situation as I am, my friend. You are lonely sometimes, need companionship, and have ethical concerns. You love animals. You have the time to be a good owner and you want new ways to meet other people. You want an identity. I think the solution for you is just what I'm doing. Let's go to the pound together and adopt dogs! it's ethical and beneficial to own a wonderful canine companion. We'll become dog patrons. It will give us a sense of purpose and identity. It just may change our lives.