The evidence for the existence of pets, or animals kept by humans for companionship, dates back thousands of years and can be found in various archaeological and historical records. Archaeological findings suggest that the domestication of dogs, one of the earliest and closest animal companions to humans, occurred as far back as 20,000-40,000 years ago. Fossilized remains and artifacts discovered at archaeological sites provide evidence of a bond between humans and dogs, indicating that early humans kept them for reasons beyond practical uses like hunting or protection. The domestication of cats is believed to have originated in the Near East, and the earliest evidence for cats being kept as pets can be traced back to the island of Cyprus. The discovery of a cat buried alongside a human on the Mediterranean island (see Science Magazine Article) provides some of the earliest archaeological evidence of the human-feline bond. In any case, from the loyal wag of a dog's tail to the soothing purr of a contented cat, there's an undeniable magic in the bond between humans and their pets. The love and companionship we share with these four-legged friends go beyond mere convenience; it's a profound connection that has been woven into the fabric of human history for centuries. Here are some articles from the staff of Redwood Veterinary Hospital that we hope that you find helpful in caring for your pet.