Dogs have been an integral part of our society for as long as there has been recorded history. No one knows for certain when they were domesticated, but many of us cannot imagine a life without a loving canine companion to see us through the day.

What Makes Dogs So Special?
Ask a dozen dog owners why their dog is their best friend and you will get a dozen different answers. Dogs are reliable, forgiving, caring and always happy to see us, to name a few. Nothing warms the heart like a lick on the hand accompanied by that fiercely wagging tail when we come home from a long, discouraging day at work.

No one but a dog will provide a shoulder to cry on even when we have just yelled at him. While he may eat your shoe, he will always hold your heart, which is why we so gladly buy the next pair of shoes and forget the offense.

Dogs In Society
Not only do dogs help fulfill our emotional needs in a world where people are drifting farther apart, they also fill practical roles that make our lives easier and activities possible. Dogs are without an equal when it comes to helping persons with disabilities. From seeing-eye dogs to wheelchair companions, dogs make normal activities attainable for many people. They also provide security, helping to keep everything from national treasures to wrecked cars safe from vandalism.

From their forgiving, loving demeanors to their fierce protection of those they love, dogs have integrated themselves so deeply into our lives that it would be difficult to carry on without dogs in the world. They truly are man’s best friend.