They are our "other" family members. Yes, the furry ones. Everyones' favourites. They never fail to cheer us up, no matter how rough the going gets.
They've become so much a part of us that they sleep with us and are present in our birthday celebrations year after year. To top it all, they've accompanied my girls on some of our family vacations as well.
Oh yes - they always lend a listening ear BUT they never complain.