When I was young we always lived in the country. We had a lot of animals. Rabbits, cats, dogs, horses, ducks, chickens, hamsters and fish! But, I wouldn't say that any of them were really my pets. They were more family pets or animals. We all helped take care of them so they didn't really belong to anyone - well, probably my parents.
When I had my own kids we finally decided to get a dog. I was 39 when we got our mini schnauzer. Even though he really is everyone's pet, he was the first pet I ever made a decision to get.
We knew we would want a dog - we just aren't cat people. and we knew we would want one that doesn't shed. My husband had a mini schnauzer growing up and had fond memories of her so that is what led our search.
I stay home all day so I do the bulk of the care for my dog. So, I guess in a way that makes him more mine!