Our pets. Some shed everywhere. Some you have to take them for walks. Let’s not even mention what it takes to pick up after them. Regardless, they’re still worth it. 

According to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, “Approximately 4.1 million shelter animals are adopted each year (2 million dogs and 2.1 million cats).” And during the pandemic, these numbers spiked and increased by over 70%.

In an Instagram poll conducted by Prowl reporter Liz Peterson, 36 out of 39 respondents said that they have at least one pet. Whether a dog or a cat, a lizard or a guinea pig, all of our pets hold a special place in our hearts. 

One of the most important parts of getting a pet is figuring out the name. Inspiration can come from anywhere—their personality, the weather, their coloring and so much more. 

“I think what you name your pet can be important to some people,” junior Dacovney Brochu said. “Some people name them after characteristics or their personality and sometimes it’s just sentimental to the person.”

Some people are creative in their names. Sophomore Jonathan Hawley has five pets. He has four cats named, Panther, Gremlin, Jumper and Sunshine and one dog named Shadow. He had some pretty interesting inspiration in his pet naming.

“I named my cat Gremlin because she looks like the creatures from the movie Gremlins,” Hawley said. “We decided on ‘Panther’ to honor our school mascot.”

Nothing shows Powell pride more than your very own panther mascot in your own house. This is just one of the many ways that people use their pets names to represent them. 

The importance of their names is often unknown to the people around them, but it could mean the world to one person.

“My dogs were named by my little brother when he was younger,” Brochu said. “They’ve grown up with my brother and I and they’re really important to us.”

Everyone loves their pets and know we can always rely on them to stay by our side. When it comes to naming them, there are many things that influence your decision and help you decide what the perfect name for your furry friend is. 

So when you come home tonight, cuddle up with your furry friend as you turn on the Hallmark Channel, and remember that they’re not so bad after all.