Mega-hunk George Clooney claims his longest relationship has been not with a babe, but a Babe: Pig in the City porker named Max. Ottawa socialite Marlen Cowpland is as famous for her fashion sense as she is for her favourite accessory, a Maltese dog dyed hot pink. Pierre Berton, Canada's revered historian, owned more than 50 cats in his lifetime and paid tribute to them all in his book Cats I Have Known and Loved(DoubleDay).

Think only the famous are obsessed with their pets? No way. Every year North Americans spend billions of dollars on pet food, toys and care, and there are thousands of websites devoted to these favourite critters. Many of us are gaga for our poopsie-poos – and rightly so. Research shows that pet owners are emotionally and physically healthier than those without furry or scaly roommates. But why do we choose a cat over a dog, a fish over an iguana, or nothing at all? Take our quiz to find out what your pet of choice says about your personality, and learn how your cherished pals return your kindness.

Question 1 of 5 When an unpleasant situation arises, your first reaction is to: bark repeatedly at anyone who'll listen hiss and pull out your claws nibble on something change into clothes that blend in with the furniture deal with it