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Kerry WeberOctober 04, 2011

On this Feast of St. Francis, "Faith, Hope, and Love," the blog of CatholicMatch.com, offers an interesting look at single, Catholic pet owners. From a member survey, CatholicMatch.com learned that 62 percent of single Catholics own a pet, and Christina Ries, the blog's editor, says that this statistic, while perhaps not surprising, is significant. "We believe pets play a special role in the lives of singles and their bonds have fascinating emotional and spiritual undertones," she said.

Their series includes:

Single Catholics on why they cherish their pets. And more survey results. And pet photos.

A divorced New Yorker's reflection on the rescue dog that rescued her.

A Wisconsin widow introduces the 113-pound labradoodle that failed obedience class, chewed her tennis balls and healed her broken heart.

There are plenty of jokes about the fear of becoming a "crazy, old cat lady," but as these essays demonstrate, for many people, pets can provide more than just punchlines. Regardless of your marital status, have pets helped you to heal in some way?

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Thomas Rooney
13 years 7 months ago
My beloved cat Archie, God rest his fuzzy soul, helped me stay sober in the critical early days of my recovery from alcoholism.  When I was shaking late at night and going out of my skin, he would jump up on my shoulder, licking and purring in my ear until I laughed, and stayed with me until I feel asleep.  Many a night, he saved me from relapsing with this simple act of love and affection.

I've been sober now for over 10 years.  I wouldn't have made a month had it not been for Archie.

I miss you, old friend! 
Crystal Watson
13 years 7 months ago
After I was divorced, a stray cat and her three kittens came along and they taught me what unconditional love was all about.  I posted their photos here - http://crystalscats.blogspot.com/

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