Anyone who has been adopted by a stray dog or cat will tell you, of all the pets they have had the joy of sharing time with, that stray that chose them will always have a special and warm place in their heart.

What is it about strays, and whom they select to spend the rest of their life with? They don't judge us on the neighborhood we live in, the size of our house, or the number of cars in the driveway. They don't care if it's a gated community, or a simple house on a busy street. They don't give a hoot about our bank account. They don't care if we are young or old. The fact we are a bit too "chubby" or a smidgen on the thin side doesn't matter to them. So what if we are bald or have false teeth! Protestant, Catholic, or Jew ...who cares? They don't.

For some mysterious reason, in their eyes YOU are perfect. Of all the homes on your street, or all the families they could endear his or herself to, or mooch a meal from; for some reason known only to them and perhaps a greater power, YOU have been chosen.

Is it an instinct? Do they have a supernatural sense to somehow make the wisest choice for their survival and contentment? What is so special about you? You may not see it, but obviously they do.

For a roof over their head, food in their belly, a hand to lick and a pack to belong to, the majority of strays that adopt a person or family express their gratitude with undying loyalty, devotion and unconditional love. You see it in their eyes, every single day you share together.

Bottom line: The next time you stumble on a stray, or they find you, think twice about ignoring it. Don't shoo them away, or call animal control. There may be an awfully good reason why at this particular time, they have move quietly into your life.