[originaltext] Of the thousands of different kinds of animals that exist in

Of the thousands of different kinds of animals that exist in the world man has learned to make friends with an enormous number. Some are pets, and offer him companionship; some give him protection, and some do hard work which man cannot do for himself.
    Trained and tamed for many generations, domestic animals are not accustomed to wandering in search of food and shelter. They look to their masters to provide for their needs, and as long as these are supplied, they are content to do what their masters require.
    All domestic animals need proper food. It must be suitable for them, sufficient in quantity, fresh and clean. Some people feed a pet dog or cat on odds and ends of table scraps, and then wonder why the animal seems listless and dull. The quantity of food depends on the size of the animal and the amount of exercise it takes. Overfeeding is as bad as underfeeding. Containers for food and water must be washed regularly if the animal is to maintain good health.
    Cats and dogs do not need a place of their own, although a very big dog is better off in a doghouse than in the house. The cat, an independent creature, is very good at finding the safest and most comfortable spot when she wants to take a nap. But cows and horses and similar animals must have proper stables, clean, dry and well ventilated.
    Even well cared-for animals may sometimes fall ill. If this happens, the wise master seeks the best advice he can get. All sorts of medicines and treatments are available for sick animals, and in some countries organizations exist to provide them free or at a cheap price. Useful, friendly, hardworking animals deserve to have some time, money and attention spent on their health.