Most People Say a Pandemic Silver Lining Has Been Time with Pets

I'm pretty sure the pets would agree.

The best way to get through tough times is to look to those things that make us happy and thankful. During 2020 those things have primarily been family, friends, the occasional Christmas playlist (guilty!), and among other things, our pets. They best part of having my dog Oliver throughout this year has been the fact that he has no idea what is going on. My little man just wants to walk, play, eat treats and snuggle with mom. He knows he wants love and wants to give love... and I love him for that.

He's certainly been a silver lining for my husband and I.

And most people would agree with me. In fact, 70 percent of people have "loved" spending time with their animal companions. Honestly, I thought that number would be higher, but 17.8 percent of respondents said they have "enjoyed it, but need some space now." Of course, I'm sure this means they are ready to get back to normal life more than it means they don't love their pets. There's even a slight number, 1.6 percent, of people who "found it annoying and want to go back to work." Again, probably more pandemic-related and not pet-related.

I also understand that not everyone is obsessed with their pet like I am. I mean, I would take Oliver with me everywhere if I could. In fact, I think we both have a little separation anxiety when I leave the house, even for a few hours.

That same survey revealed 30.9 percent of people are planning on working from home indefinitely, so I don't think I'm alone here.