Almost anyone who has ever had pets can contest to talking to them as though they were human. We tell them about our days, complain about having to clean up after them and ask them questions as though we expect an answer. But what if animals could talk? What would they say?

Children's stories are filled with characters from the animal kingdom that are able to talk with each other and, in some cases, with humans.

Author Hugh Lofting's eccentric character, Dr. Doolittle, was able to converse with animals, but he didn't presume to teach the camel or goat his language. Instead, he took it upon himself to learn theirs.

What would animals say if they could communicate with us beyond the commands fetch, sit and roll over? Would they complain about current events, whine because they don't like the food you bought or simply tell you they love you?

Even though our pets don't understand us literally, they still appear to be cognizant of our moods and feelings.

Or maybe that is just wishful thinking.