Scott Simon’s Love Letter to the Pets Who Changed His Life

By Cat Behaviorist Rita Reimers

Why Do We Love Our Pets So Much

Award-winning journalist, bestselling author, and longtime host of NPR’s Weekend Edition Saturday, Scott Simon recently joined me on 19 Cats and Counting to discuss his heartfelt new book, *Ulysses S. Cat and Other Animals I Have Known*.

During our conversation, Scott shared touching, funny, and deeply personal stories about the animals who have shaped his life. From beloved cats to other unforgettable companions, the book explores the joy, comfort, lessons, and even heartbreak that come with loving animals.

One of the things I enjoyed most about our discussion was how universal these stories are. Whether you’ve shared your life with a cat, dog, or any other cherished pet, you’ll likely recognize pieces of your own experience in Scott’s stories.

Sharing Our Lives With Pets is a Gift

As a cat behaviorist, I spend a great deal of time helping people strengthen their relationships with their pets. What Scott’s book beautifully illustrates is something I see every day: our animals change us. They teach us patience, compassion, resilience, and unconditional love.

Sharing our lives with pets can be rewarding, but it can also be painful. Our conversation also touched on the grief that comes with losing a beloved pet. While the loss is never easy, the memories and lessons they leave behind remain with us for a lifetime.

If you’ve ever loved a pet, laughed at their antics, cried after saying goodbye, or found comfort in their companionship, I think you’ll enjoy both Scott’s book and our conversation.

My Interview with Simon Scott

As I mentioned, I was lucky enough to have Simon Scott as a guest on my Pet Life Radio Show, 19 Cats and Counting. You can watch the full interview here:

Meet Some of the Cats Who Have Changed My Life

Have you ever had a pet who changed your life? I’d love to hear about them in the comments.