Dog was top choice for pet in Big Island Now’s poll #7, but how did other animals fare?

This week, 806 people took Big Island Now’s poll #7 in which we asked: What is your favorite animal for a pet?

Like reader Howard, who said, “I had a dog, sometimes 2, for around 50 years. … I have great memories of them all,” the winner of the poll was poochies, with 461 votes (57%).

The poll question was inspired by National Pet Day, which was April 11. The day was founded in 2006 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate. It is for celebrating the joy of having a pet and also for bringing attention to all the animals in shelters who need homes. The day’s motto became: “Don’t Shop! Adopt!” Paige encouraged people to rescue animals instead of purchase purebred dogs from a breeder.

No surprise, cats came in second place with 253 votes (31%). But Big Island Now readers also showed some love for other animals, including snakes.

The results for Big Island Nowʻs Poll #7:

• Dog: 461 (57%)
• Cat: 253 (31%)
• Fish: 24 (2%)
• Horse: 17 (2%)
• Snake: 13 (1%)
• Lizard: 13 (1%)
• Bunny: 12 (1%)
• Bird: 9 (1%)
• Guinea Pig: 3 (0%)
• Hampster/gerbil/mouse: 1 (0%)

Be sure to check out Monday’s poll #8, when we ask: What was your favorite part of the 60th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival?