One of the hardest parts of college life is leaving behind those you love, especially when those you love have paws or whiskers. In honor of all those who miss their pets, here is a list of pet films that everyone should see at some point.
“Air Bud” (1997)
This film is the pinnacle of all pet films. Not only did man”s best friend prove his sporting abilities in this movie, but he also managed to spark the creation of a franchise that has exhausted all possible sequels – including a bunch of puppies traveling to space.
Austin Maas
“The Shaggy Dog” (2006)
Tim Allen stars in this work of cinematic genius as a father who, through a freak accident, is transformed into his family”s dog. While searching for a way to change back into his former self, he discovers that he”s been neglecting his family and lifts his leg on his professional career – a truly heart-warming tale.
“Marley and Me” (2008)
No matter how many sad pet films you”ve seen, this one will definitely break you. Packed with enough heart to distract from Owen Wilson”s funny-looking nose, this film will have you praying that your pets live forever.
“Homeward Bound” (1993)
This movie showcases the incredible journey of two dogs and a cat who fear they have been abandoned by their family and are trying to make it home. Countless shots of the three animals running across landscapes, paired with impeccable voiceover skills make this movie 85 minutes of pure nostalgic wonder.
“Paulie” (1998)
Not all great pet movies are about dogs. In this film Paulie, a parrot, is trapped in a research facility. In an effort to escape, Paulie regales the facility janitor with his life story and unfolds the most touching series of flashbacks ever seen in parrot movie history.
“Flicka” (2006)
The story of Flicka has been recycled many times over the years. This one is the story of a young girl who miraculously tames a wild horse that definitely should have killed her. When she finally manages to make a connection with her equine companion, her evil dad (Tim McGraw) sells the horse to protect her. The dramatic events that follow will have you itching at the opportunity to tame your very own hooved beast.
Austin Maas can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @austindmaas