As I’ve been speaking with audiences during the launch of my new book, Friends Matter, For Life, one question keeps coming up: Are pets considered friends? My answer is simple: Absolutely! When you think about what makes a great friend—loyal, supportive, and always there for you—pets check all the boxes. Whether it’s a dog spinning in circles when you walk through the door at home or a cat purring contentedly in your lap, they embody unconditional love. It’s no wonder 85 percent of pet owners consider their animals part of the family (American Psychiatric Association, 2023). For many of us, they fill life with joy, offering a steadfast presence during life’s highs and lows. They’re true companions.

Think about the role friendships play in our lives—they lift us up, provide reassurance, and remind us that we’re cared for. Animals do all of this effortlessly. Somehow, they know when we’re elated and when we’re upset. They respond not with words (though vocal in their own ways!) but with actions: a gentle nuzzle, a wagging tail, or simply sitting by our side or at our feet. And let’s face it—on those days when people frustrate or annoy us, our furry friends are the perfect, drama-free........

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