To many people, pets are more than just companions. They consider their cat, dog, bird, etc., as a loved one who is there for them in good times and bad.

I knew my new pets would cause a stir, and because I did not have the energy to be courageous that morning, I took Mr. Kangar and Mrs. Roo in by the back way and there, of course, I met the person I most dreaded - my sister! "Now what," said Katy, "have ye there?" "Nothing at all-that is-well-nothing of interest to you. I'm certain of that," I replied "Is it a prairie dog?" "Katy, I couldn't!" "Hmm-or one of thim pole cats?" "Oh, no!" "A birrrd?" "Katy, it's a pair of the most precious little creatures that you ever saw.

Sheep offer a rich school of learning. All living creatures - human, tamed pets, working farm animals, birds, reptiles, insects, wild animals - have emotions and feelings. Life in the countryside holds valuable life lessons, opening our eyes to love, life, loss, death. We only have to stand still and observe and experience and feel and be.