In the wake of the recent chimp tragedy, we have sadly been reminded that all pets are animals. Every year there are stories of snakes and dogs killing their owners or, even worse, a neighbor’s child. As much as we love them, pamper them, and make them family members, pets can turn on us unexpectedly. They are not “fur people;” they are living beasts.

The definition of “animal” contains words describing something that is brutish, carnal, and physical in nature. Those of us who live with dogs know this, and we are always on our guard when walking our pet near other canines.

My friendly little dog, Maggie, and I were once visiting a friend where four cats and a dog were in residence. We had been there often, so my friend and I were taken aback when Maggie suddenly jumped the larger dog, biting her in the back. The cats appeared and joined in the fray, attacking their “sister” even as we pulled my dog off. The result was a $200 vet bill due to cat scratch fever that developed several days later. That was a huge wake-up call to me, and I have been vigilant ever since.

Then there was my daughter’s cat, Dusty, who changed personalities over the years. We had a nightly grooming session, which she always seemed to enjoy. One Saturday night as I reached for her in the usual manner, she turned on me, claws slashing at my eyes. I caught her wrist, just as nails punctured my skin, and unhooked them from my face. Realizing that I needed stitches, I drove myself to the hospital. My daughter, who was 16 at the time, commented, “See, if I had my license, I could drive you there myself,” but that’s another story. The upshot was, seven stitches and a beautiful black eye later, I had a cat I no longer trusted. I fully relate to the way Maggie keeps her nose and eyes pointed away from the business end of my cats, even though they all eat and sleep together on a regular basis.

These stories do not in any way deter me from advocating pet ownership. Rogue animal incidences are in the minority for domesticated animals, and the benefits of including pets in your life should far outweigh any concerns. The key ingredient to a pet/human relationship should be respect on the part of the owner for the natural bestiality of their ward. Love them, hug them, and play with them, but remain aware.

We all seem to learn things the hard way and, unfortunately, sometimes that way is tragic.