A columnist who writes from time to time in our local rag made an interesting statement the other day, which got me wondering. He is not a huge fan of animals - unless of course, they - or parts thereof - are presented on a plate, with seasonal vegetables, and maybe a splash of gravy. It goes without saying that he is not a pet person, although he grudgingly acknowledges the educational role that pets can play. His daughter, apparently, has learned a lot about death from having several hamsters.
I don't have a problem with any of the above, nor, indeed, do I have one with his utter dislike of some of the more unpleasant species on the planet (no, not humans, although......). In fact, I agree with him. If all man-eating sharks, Crocodiles, and venomous nasties of all kinds were threatened with extinction, there would be no insomnia in this house.
But I do have slight worries about his disdain for people who say they prefer the company of animals to that of humans - not because they are right or wrong to make such a statement, but I feel the statements - his and theirs - require qualification. Under normal circumstances I prefer the company of ED ('er downstairs) to, say, that of a Great White Shark, although it does depend on how much she's had at the time. Budgies are somewhat limited conversation-wise, and Parrots seem to swear a lot. Dogs can be nice, if over-enthusiastic, company - my darling daughter's Newfoundland is an example of this. He is absolutely ideal for anyone who likes an eleven-stone furball with halitosis on their lap. Cats, of course, are a very emotive subject, and a purring cat on your lap is a relaxing experience. Right up until the moment the psychotic little bastard decides it's had enough and - instead of simply getting off - goes completely insane, claws you to shreds, and bites you.
I believe, though, that sometimes the company of animals is infinitely preferable to that of some humans. There are people out there you would not want to spend an evening with. I live in Essex, so I know what I'm talking about. For instance, would you like a few hours in the company of a Hoodie with a Staffie and eczema (the worst example of a human/animal relationship), or some of the druggies we see around here? There are numerous situations involving other humans that you just wouldn't want to be in - like a holiday with Nick Clegg, for instance.
On the other hand, if we treat our pets properly, they are rewarding and relaxing company, because the relationship is based on mutual trust and affection. Animals have no hidden agenda (except for some cats), and our little tabby would not consider hurting a thing. She's the sweetest-natured animal I've ever had, and I'm sorry, but I prefer her to a lot of humans.
Of course, if I was entertaining Julia Roberts, I could adjust my opinion, slightly.
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