As far as one can trace back history, you will find countless incidents that involved interaction between animals and humans.
They have played various roles; that of a friend, companion, benefactor, protector, comforter, and more. This world would be a very different place were its sole inhabitants humans. Apart from being faithful comrades, animals also have numerous other benefits for humans. Before the time when insulin could be artificially produced, it was extracted from horses. Trained guide dogs are also available who serve as loyal companions and a "pair of eyes" for the visually impaired.
Better yet, we can take a trip through time and stand alongside the early human, as he sat huddling by a fire, seeking shelter in its blazing warmth from the raging elements that probably stormed in all their fury outside his cave. Even then, he probably wouldn't have been alone. One can almost imagine that while he sat there, there sat by him by his side a faithful companion, a dog probably, his companion and friend in his hunts and his comfort and solace during lonely nights.
Even though animals are under-rated and under-appreciated in many walks of life, many see their true worth. Those who cannot, or refuse to, see their importance; do so only out of selfishness or ignorance. These creatures with whom we share God's earth lend beauty, grace and understanding to the vast universe of life. For the most part, their wild abandon and grace provides insight for those who are artistically inclined. Others derive their inspiration from their discipline and their rigid methods of following a set pattern of unsaid rules.
On the other hand, they can teach great lessons of love. Numerous incidents can be recounted which tell of how the life of a lonely old lady or a depressed man were changed