It probably began with early humans realizing the usefulness of certain animals. Some animals such as pigs, cattle, goats and sheep, went on to become mostly livestock and largely fill that role to this day – with a few exceptions. Others, such as dogs, began their domestication in a more utilitarian role in aiding in hunting and protection, but went on to become pets as the centuries passed. Other animals, such as cats, birds, and fish, seemed to have always filled the need many of have to take care of something, or to simply have a companion.

Today, many households have at least one furry, feathered, or scaled friend. Dogs, cats, birds, fish, hamsters, reptiles, and all sorts of other animals have become a part of our family. We treat them just as we would a human member of the household, providing them with food, shelter, health care, and love. Entire industries have been built around the care of our animals. We even grieve for them when they die.

Our love of animals goes even further beyond our desire to keep them as pets. All around the world, people throng to zoos and wildlife parks. There you can see the dangerous and not-so-dangerous wild animals from every habitat, up close and personal. Whether the draw is merely curiosity or awe, visitors flock by the thousands.

Man’s relationship with animals is still not fully understood to this day. Why do we find them pleasing to the eye, whether we find them “cute” or simply interesting? No one really knows, but animals’ appeal to people is undeniable.