Are You a True Animal Lover?

According to the American Pet Products Association, there are pets in 72.9 millions homes in the United States. A staggering number, that's a whopping 62% of all homes in the U.S. People love living with dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, fish and assorted other animals.

The physical and mental health benefits of owning pets are many. Dog and cat owners often remark on the unconditional love they receive from their pets. Your pet doesn't care if you wake up with bad breath. They love you anyway. Health benefits include everything from reducing blood pressure, quicker surgery recoveries and fewer trips to the doctor to lowered allergy risks in children. It's no wonder pets play such an important role in the lives of many.

To be a true animal lover, however, is to be a breed apart. Most people love their pets but true animal lovers take their devotion to another level. Are you a true animal lover? Here are 10 ways to find out:

1. Your cupboard is full of gourmet food - for the dog. You eat boxed macaroni and cheese.

2. Your cat sneezes and you rush her to the vet. You have the flu for 8 weeks and wait it out.

3. You wake up in the middle of the night to discover you have a dog sleeping on your legs and a cat on your chest. Yes, breathing is difficult but you'll live.

4. You know the names of each of your neighbor's dogs but not the names of their kids.

5.  You spend hours scheduling play dates for the dog.

6.  You sleep soundly for four hours but wake up with a start. You realize the cat has not made an appearance in all that time. You jump out of bed, grab the flashlight and look everywhere for her. You finally find her snoring softly in the easy chair.

7.  Your dog is prepared for any weather: a sweater for those cool fall days, a rain suit for April showers and a parka for December's snow.

8. The cat meows and you talk to him. Your spouse speaks and you don't even notice.

9.  You love to try new dog treat recipes. You taste each one yourself before offering it to the dog, just to make sure it comes up to your high standards.

10. When you shop for a new living room chair, you look for one wide enough to accommodate you AND your pets. Anything less is unacceptable.

If you do all of the above, you are a true-blue animal lover. Count yourself among the elite.