[originaltext] Americans love pets. Many pet owners treat their furry friend

Americans love pets. Many pet owners treat their furry friends as part of the family. If they have an eye for fashion, pet owners can dress their pets in stylish clothes. For special occasions, they can use perfume to make their dogs smell well. You might say Americans treat their pets like they treat their children—sometimes even better. In America, there are more households with pets than those with children. At least 43 percent of U. S. homes have pets of some sort. Exotic creatures, such as monkeys, snakes and even wolves, find a home with some Americans. More common pets include tropical fish, mice and birds. But the all time favorites are cats and dogs, even at the White House. The Bushes’ dog, Spot, has replaced the Clintons’ cat, Socks. Leading a dog’s life in America isn’t such a bad thing. Many grocery stores sell delicious pet foods to owners eager to please their pets. In Houston, Texas, dogs can have their dinner delivered to their homes, just like pizza. Pets can even accompany their owners on vacation. Fancy hotels are beginning to accommodate both man and pets. Furry guests in hotels can enjoy delicious meals served on fine china and sleep in soft beds. The average American enjoys having pets around, and for good reasons. Researchers have discovered that interacting with animals lowers a person’s blood pressure. Dogs can offer protection from burglars and unwelcome visitors. Cats can help the home get rid of pests. Little creatures of all shapes and sizes can provide companionship and love. In many cases, having a pet prepares 32 a young couple for the responsibilities of parenthood. Pets even encourage social relationships: They give their owners an appearance of friendliness, and they provide a good topic of conversation.