My wife and I got Dogs instead of kids. WE are very happy with this decision.
Pros-
:no college fund yet early retirement
:less visits from the in-laws to visit the dogs

ogs always love you back even when they are teenagers
:You are not contributing to Americas overpopulations of labor that doesn't want to labor
: They eat less and don't need an allowance.
: Dogs never want a new car for their 16th B-day
: Dogs don't complain when you take them on a road trip.
: Dogs are quicker to potty train than kids
: I can go fishing on schooldays and not have to pick the dog up from school at 3pm
: Dogs allow my wife and I to make spur of the moment plans and go!
: Did I mention that dogs don't have school problems and I don't worry about them going on dates?
: I can lock my dogs in the house and I don't worry about either sneaking out, or anyone sneaking in.
: I don't have to disillusion myself into believing that my dogs will take care of me when I am old.
: Dogs are a better judge of character than kids.
I could go on and on..
Cons-
: It is hard to find other DINKS to socialize with.
: Relatives continue to ask after 14 years of marriage abour kids.