I'm also very passionate about my dogs. They are definitely my kids.
Ah, someone else who understands about that!! I'm the same way about my "kids" .... most think they're just pets, but it's much more than that for me. I think having to get up and care for them and feed them helped get me back on my feet a lot faster after my surgery. Of course, they weren't about to leave me in peace when the food bowl got empty either LOL I swear they count every friggin piece of food in the canisters and KNOW when I'm about to run out... they get obnoxious as hell and are right at the door inspecting every bag I bring in!