Human and animal

From the moment humans first tamed animals about 10,000 years ago, animals have played a big role in people's lives. Even though at first domestic animals were used for meat, milk, and hides, as time passed, humans realized that they are not just food but living and breathing creatures. They began to see them as their friends who would accompany them while hunting, traveling, or guarding their homes. However, there was always something special but complex in the relationship between humans…

The enchanting snaps show the women cuddling up to the fearsome animals - petting wolves beneath their chins and - in one startling image - lounging against a mighty white tiger.

Africa: San girl with cheetah, Namibia, Gregory Colbert

There are many household pets out there which truly understand the meaning of devotion and love. They often display an understanding of their responsibilities and a level of trust and compassion that you don’t always find in people. For these reasons as well as others, we think every child should have a pet. But just in case you don’t agree with us, here’s some photographic evidence that should convince you.

Moscow-based photographer Anastasiya Dobrovolskaya is not your typical "pet photographer." Her trademark photos look like something out of a fairytale, but everything is real—from beautiful and unique people to breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of animals you wouldn't expect to pose alongside people. Foxes, tigers, owls, snakes, horses, goats, anything you can think of is featured in Dobrovolskaya's incredible portfolio, including the most-wanted bear model, Stepan, who was rescued as a…

Burt at Stanley park, has been coming and feed the birds for years; obviously they are comfortable with him... (great for seeing size of swans vs. humans, too)