How much is that doggy in the window?

In these days of instagrammage and posting for Facebook likes, it’s hard not to follow the trend. But is an animal ever an accessory? Or even simply a faithful watch- hound, to be chained in the backyard as reinforcement of a sign that reads ‘Beware Dog’? Perhaps something to give the kids so they’ll stop their whining for a week? Should we not, instead, consider these creatures, so loyal, capable of so much love and affection, as our very own animal companions?