An Op-Ed By Alyna Rei

A common question I hear a lot is “Do you prefer cats or dogs?” Both animals bring comfort to many people. It really does depend on the person if they prefer a cat or a dog. If you are into a calm, quiet, lazy animal, go with a cat (not saying all dogs aren’t calm). If you are into a more energetic, active, and happy animal, go with a dog. Cats will be in their own world and will come to you when they want to while a dog sticks by your side.

If I were to choose, I would choose dogs. For example, we have cat allergies in my house. So getting a cat would be torture. Another reason I choose dogs is because dogs help me stay responsible and active. Cats to me are more of an indoor pet, while a dog needs exercise. I have never seen someone “walk” their cat. 

I also just learned that cats can not be service animals. The only animal that can be a service animal is a dog. 

Below are my two golden retrievers, Lucy and Ethel. I’ve had them since I was in sixth grade. Both have taught me and my brother great responsibility: we feed them, clean the yard, and take them for walks.

Here are people’s opinions on this common question: Do you prefer dogs or cats?

“Dogs.  Cats are bendy and weird.”

Sienna Price (8th grade)

“Both. I don’t want to be biased.”

Abigail Horwitt (10th grade)

“Both. I’ve always had cats, but dogs have been a revelation in my life.”

Ms. Zachik (teacher)

“Dogs. I’m allergic to cats. Dogs have more personality.”

Lilah Nick (sophomore)

“I prefer dogs because I find them to be more fun companions than cats. I appreciate cats’ independence, but dogs tend to play more and engage more with humans. Plus, no scratches with dogs!”

Ms. Coffey (teacher)

“Dogs are cool? But so are cats? Cats are a lot more mellow while dogs are a lot more active? I like them both.”

Cole Robinson (sophomore)

“Dogs. Dogs are so much more playful. Dogs are also good for protection. It depends which type of dog you have, but dogs are better at protecting. I doubt a cat would attack an intruder. I personally like dogs better, but I’ve also never had a cat.”

Christina Lam (sophomore)

“I like cats because they’re small and friendly. They are also cute, and their purrs are sweet. Dogs are more dangerous than cats.”

Jocelynn Montoya (junior)