Animals in a home make it look more real, lived in, and less sterile and cold to me: they make it look more appealing I love animals.

i think that by having a pet in the picture it makes it a bit warmer and less 'just a room' picture if that makes any sense. that's not to say that i don't really pay any mind to them, cause to be honest, i don't focus on the cat/dog/bird/fish, but it does make the room look like it's a little more habitable.

I agree with all of the above! Pets is a photo make it a more lovable photo... thus making it a more lovable home

I agree animals and children make the pictures look less show room-ish.

I love pictures with animals it gives the impression that design doesn't haven't to be compromised just because you have a pet!

I had a hard time voting since I think of an Animal Shelter when I see the word "shelter" - but yes, anything is more appealing to me with a pet in it! Some of my fave commercials have pets in 'em!!

I have four dogs -- there hardly is ever a room without a dog in it, so you know my vote!

I voted yes, but here's my extra preference: I want to know the pet's name. Otherwise it feels like it's just a prop.

I think it's hilarious when a spread in Metropolitan Home will show a high end apartment, completely done in white couches white rugs white chairs etc etc. and then shows 2 bulldogs in the doorway.

Either 1) these folks have full time housecleaners and an outrageous bleach bill or 2) those poor pooches NEVER get outside.

I have 1 boxer, and a yard with a few bare dirt spots and therefore the "earthtone" color palate of decorating has been chosen FOR ME. I can't even keep my white pants clean with my slobber girl around. All it takes is one little kiss.....

It really depends on the animal, what it is doing in the photo, and whether it suits its surroundings. Some rooms just house pets better than others. In some photos, the addition of a pet is either a distraction or just cloying.