Ask out-of-towners what surprises them about New Yorkers, and besides discovering that we're not as rude as everyone thinks we are, high up on their list is likely how much we adore our pets. They're amazed by how well we manage to share such small apartments with animals, and how many of us actually do. (Have you seen the Upper West Side in the early mornings? Two words for you: dog walk.) In many instances, they rule the roost. We asked contributors and readers to share pics of their pets at home, and ended up with some of the most adorable emails and Facebook messages—and subjects—sent our way. Enjoy!

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