If you’ve read this blog for any time at all, you’ll know how much I love animals. Currently, in the way of good little beasts in my life, I have one dog, two cats, one goose, four goats, and four chickens.
Not to mention the greatness of all the birds, squirrels, rabbits, deer, opossums, mice, and more that scamper around our property.
But back to the pets. Every pet owner knows the truth. Dogs and cats don’t just live with us. They pretty much run the show. And we share our lives and our homes gladly. We love them.
Recently, the pet food company Purina analyzed a year’s worth of Google Trends data. They looked at 20 different search terms about dogs and cats. As such, they tried to figure out which states are the most obsessed with their four-legged companions. The states that searched the most, across the widest range of terms, claimed the crown.
And the winner?
Colorado takes first prize for canine devotion. The top question there? “Do dogs dream?” Residents also search for things like best dog toys, dog boarding near me, and dog-friendly restaurants. All of this is proof that Colorado dogs are probably living better lives than most of us.
And wouldn’t you know? Home Sweet Home. Ohio landed in second place, with a surprisingly sweet top question: “Is my dog happy?” Buckeye dog parents also look for nearby shelters, trainers, and toys. Honestly, Ohio dogs might be the most emotionally supported pets in the country.
North Carolina comes in third with another heart-melter: “Does my dog love me?” They also search for cute dog pictures, training tips, and the best dog food.
Top 10 Dog-Obsessed States:
Colorado
Ohio
North Carolina
Florida
Pennsylvania (tied with Arizona)
Arizona (tied with Pennsylvania)
Illinois
Utah
Washington
California
I’d be remiss if I didn’t continue. So, here is the flipside. The cat-obsessed states.
Washington takes the top spot for feline fandom. Residents searched for “cat boarding” near me more than anything. Apparently Washington cats don’t go on vacation with their owners. Runners-up included cute cat pictures, cat memes, and the ever-important cat food.
Pennsylvania is the second most cat-obsessed state, with “cat food” at the top and I love my cat right behind it. Pennsylvania cats might be overweight.
Oregon claims third place. The searched for “cat memes” and “cat harnesses.” Apparently, Oregon is taking its cats outside. And maybe making memes about it.
Top 10 Cat-Obsessed States:
Washington
Pennsylvania
Oregon
Ohio
Massachusetts
Minnesota
Indiana
Wisconsin
Michigan
Colorado
Pets have this uncanny way of softening the world around us. They don’t ask for much. But in return, they give us the kind of love that feels steady and uncomplicated. Unconditional.
If we’re lucky, we get an animal who teaches us how to be a little kinder, a little more patient, a little more present. They pull us into the moment with a paw on the knee or a slow blink from across the room. And somehow, the day feels lighter.
May we always honor that kind of love.
May we care for them with the same devotion they offer us, freely and without conditions.
And may we never forget how much better the world feels with because of them.
And. I got a mouse for Christmas. I couldn’t be happier. I love my new little mouse.
“”””””””
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”
— Anatole France
“”””””””
“Animals are such agreeable friends. They ask no questions. They pass no criticisms.”
— George Eliot
“”””””””
“Some people talk to animals. Not many listen though. That’s the problem.”
— A.A. Milne
“”””””””
