I grew up around animals. We lived out in the country and had all kinds: dogs, cats, horses, pigs, cows, chickens, turkeys, rabbits.
When I met Bruce he had his Cocker Spaniel, DJ, and I had my kitty Taz (both RB babies now). He was "not a cat person" only because he never had cats growing up, only dogs. There were NO problems when Taz and I moved in with Bruce and DJ. DJ learned to leave Taz alone and all was well. Now Bruce is officially an "animal lover". He even said so just this past weekend. I am a lucky girl!

I've never had an issue with needing to choose between a pet and a man. And if I did, it would be a no-brainer............my pets are my children. If you can't accept them then I don't need you!

Oh, and as far as family pets. Everyone has dogs! My mom has two (or three, she houses her pool guys dog), my brother has four and my sister has two. And now Bruce's brother also has a dog, recently added to the two cats they already had.