Alpha Five's furry valentine

According to Webster's dictionary, one of the definitions of a valentine is someone who "expresses uncritical praise or affection." Who in your life fits that description? I know exactly who it is in mine!

My valentine brings me the paper every morning, without tearing his favorite sections out first. He makes a fool out of himself just to see me laugh, eats whatever I give him for dinner, and never steals the remote from me. He doesn't complain that I snore at night, and is happy to move to the floor when I complain that he's snoring.

My valentine never criticizes my appearance, job, or handiwork around the house -- he's just happy to have me around. In fact, he's content to stay by my side whether I'm sick or healthy, happy or sad. Have a guess who it is?

My valentine this year is Clifton, my dog!

And I'm not the only one who thinks a dog is the best sweetheart -- according to Recession Wire's recent study featuring 400 Americans, the majority stated that their pets’ emotional support and happy-go-lucky attitude were the key to helping them get through tough times.

Yes, we have our husbands, wives, children, and friends, but no love is quite as special as the non-judgmental, unconditional love that our dogs have for us. So this Valentine's Day, pick up a heart-shaped bone and make a date with your biggest fan. I guarantee he won't even argue about what movie to see!

And whatever you do, please don't show this to my wife!