Pets for Singles, Part I

No matter how full your days as a single, if you live alone, there are still nights when the sound of your iPod isn't enough to fill the silence.

When singles get lonely, some of them rush out and return with the first member of the opposite sex who doesn't smell like something stuck to a bathroom stall.

Singletude doesn't endorse this option. Instead, Singletude recommends making a lifelong commitment to someone you will feed, pay medical bills for, and give up your bed to, who will never ask you why you two don't talk anymore.

A pet.

(No, that is not what spouses are for! Jeez!)

I mean an animal that can be classified in the canine or feline families! Or, if you're more adventurous, a psittacid, leporid, or cyprinid. Animal companions can provide you with affection, entertainment, protection, and even health benefits. That's right--owning a pet can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol level, decrease your risk of depression, and increase your overall health.

Today and tomorrow, Singletude presents reviews of common household pets with the needs of singles in mind.


1. Dogs

No list of pets would be complete without "man's best friend." One of the first domesticated species, dogs have been our allies for centuries. As pack animals, they're especially suited to the hierarchical, cooperative nature of human society. While their temperaments vary greatly by breed, most dogs are affectionate, protective, loyal, and playful. The soft, plushy coats don't hurt, either, especially when you need a hug after a disappointing day.

Singles who struggle with loneliness will appreciate a devoted dog who trots eagerly alongside from room to room and snuggles close at night. Those who feel vulnerable living alone will also find peace of mind with a furry bodyguard at their feet. And, as an added benefit for the busy single, a puppy who wants to play fetch or tug-of-war will give you an undeniable excuse to exercise.

Dogs are relatively low-maintenance. They require two or three meals a day and about as many walks, so working singles won't find it difficult to fit Lassie or Fido into their work schedules. Alternatively, when you're out, you can keep your dog on a run, in a fenced-in yard, or, if he's small enough, in a cage of appropriate dimensions. However, walking a dog may open opportunities to connect with other dog lovers, so singles who are lonely or isolated may want to block in time to take a stroll through the park.

Since two dog breeds can be almost as different from each other as two separate species, make sure you do your research before you pick your pet. Some dogs need more space, attention, or training than many singles can provide. If your dog is miserable, she'll really let you know about it through incessant barking, chewed furniture, or offensively scented "gifts" in inappropriate places. Do what's best for both of you and get a dog that's compatible with your lifestyle. When you find the right match, you'll have found a friend for life.


2. Cats

Cats have a reputation for antisocial behavior, but cat lovers know this is just independence. (Many of us singles can certainly relate!) Ranging from about 5 to 20 lbs., cats are smaller than most dogs and are less demanding, which may be why they've now surpassed dogs as the most popular pet in the nation.

Though they still need to be fed at least twice a day, supervised walks are unnecessary. Primarily outdoor and indoor/outdoor cats can take care of business by themselves, thank you, although it's best to give them an enclosed area unless your neighborhood has little or no traffic and no threat of wild predators. However, many owners opt to keep their pets indoors full-time, with a litter box that is cleaned once or twice a week. Special "clumping" litter and sifting bags have made this arrangement easier than ever. Since cats aren't that active in adulthood and adapt well to small spaces, they don't need time outside to stretch their legs...and the local bird population will thank you.

Cats are unique in that they share many of the advantages of a dog--intelligence, playfulness, good communicative ability, and cuddly, huggable bodies--but not the dependency that can make it hard for singles to go on vacation or even stay out late with a dog at home. Cats can spend hours, even days alone without incident and are well known for conserving their food.

Plus, if you're squeamish about small critters, a cat on patrol can discourage rodents and eliminate quite a few leggy, hairy things better seen in horror flicks than on your bedroom floor.

Singles should be aware, though, that cats can be destructive due to their profuse shedding, frequent vomiting of hairballs, and long, sharp claws, which need regular trimming or rubber nail sheaths if the cat won't reserve them for the scratching post. Cats also delight in mischief, and it's difficult, if not impossible, to discipline them since they have much less motivation than dogs to submit to the will of a superior. Furthermore, some breeds are more sociable than others and can be almost as jealous of your attention as dogs, so choose with care.

However, if you welcome a cat into your home, you will be rewarded with hilarious antics that will occupy you for hours and a warm, purring friend to keep you company on long, cold nights.


Dogs and cats are so common that most people have had some experience with them, and they're often the first animals that come to mind when a single individual is considering a pet. Unfortunately, many people overlook animals that fly under the radar, and that's a shame because such animals can be better suited to the needs and concerns of singles. Tomorrow, we'll feature some of these less traditional pets.


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