What animals make the best/worst pets?

From someone who lives with two snoring Bassets, a cat who healed her heartbreak, and a whole lot of opinions.

Let’s get something straight: I love animals. But not all of them are meant to live in your house, hog your blankets, or judge your snacking habits like a disappointed Southern aunt. I’ve got opinions, and I’ve got experience—namely in the form of two dramatic Basset Hounds named Cash and Shelby, and one unexpected little hero of a cat named Bean. So here’s my take on which animals make the best—and bless their hearts—worst pets.

Best Pets (Most Days)

Basset Hounds: Oh honey, let me tell you. Cash and Shelby are two short-legged, long-eared, emotionally unstable lovebugs who run the show around here. They’re like having two dramatic toddlers who are convinced they’re the stars of their own reality show. They’re loyal to a fault, have a nose that leads them into chaos daily, and snore like chainsaws. And yet? They are pure love on four stumpy legs. If you can handle drool, drama, and daily naps with a side of stubbornness—you’ll never find better companions.

Cats: Specifically, Bean—my little unexpected sidekick. I didn’t want a cat. I was working in Vet-Med, I’d seen enough cats to know what I was getting into. Not to mention, my housemate & bestie had like, FIVE! But then my son was leaving for Japan (Semper Fi!), and there I was—trying to be brave, hiding the heartbreak. Someone handed me this tiny, five-week-old ball of fluff with a motorboat purr and eyes too big for his head. And just like that, I wasn’t alone. Bean wiped my tears, made me laugh, and clawed his way into my heart (and occasionally, my furniture). He’s sweet, sensitive, slightly unhinged, and exactly what I didn’t know I needed.

Worst Pets (Bless ‘Em, but No Thanks)

Okay, let’s not call them the worst… let’s call them “not for me.” Anything that needs a heat lamp, eats live bugs, or might escape and show up in my laundry room at 2am? Hard pass. Lizards? Very cool. Love to admire them from a distance. But I’m not built for pet ownership that involves thermostat management and crickets on auto-ship. Respect to those who are—I salute you. Truly. But this gal needs fur, eye contact, and a personality big enough to match my own.

The Final Word:

Pets are like people—some are weird, some are wonderful, some are downright exhausting. But when you find the ones that fit your life and fill your heart? Hold on tight. Whether you’re a dog devotee, a cat whisperer, or someone who just really loves lizards, your perfect pet is out there. Mine just happen to snore, shed, and steal snacks.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

XOXO, Jani

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