some news about the pets

Americans spent more than $41 billion last year on their pets, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. We spend more on our pets than movies, video games and music combined.

So, what does the type of pet you choose to pamper say about you? Many pet owners look for pets that reflect their own personalities, looks and lifestyle, experts say. But their expectations often are not in sync with their choices.

"People that like cats tend to be those that maybe are more reflective and appreciate the cat's ability to be different and stand by himself and yet be affectionate on his own terms,” said Amy Shojai, a certified animal behavior consultant. "A lot of artists, a lot of writers and musicians, really enjoy having cats because they are not quite as demanding as dogs.”

Whether you want a Persian cat with long, silky fur that requires daily primping or a garden-variety cat that you can just wipe off with a chamois depends on your lifestyle, Shojai said. A nurturing person might opt for the Persian, while a more active person would choose the short-haired alternative.

The same concept holds true for dog owners. Generally, athletic, outdoorsy people choose dogs that can keep up with their lifestyles, such as boxers and golden retrievers. Fashionistas love a purse dog, such as a Yorkie or a Shih Tzu, but aggressive, no-nonsense people may prefer rottweilers and pit bull terriers.