From pets and farm animals to the wildlife that surrounds us, animals have always been an intrinsic part of our lives. Their fascinating behaviours, companionship, loyalty and affection – and even their wariness of us – do not go unrecognised, inspiring a range of pithy tributes from artists, authors, politicians and presidents.
Here is a selection of our favourite animal quotes from famous animal lovers, from George Eliot to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Best horse quotes: our favourite horsey sayings
- Best dog quotes: our favourite sayings about man's best friend
Best animal quotes
“Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.”
Colette
"The purity of a person's heart can be quickly measured by how they regard animals."
Theophile Gautier
"Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened."
Anatole France
"The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man."
Charles Darwin
"If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans."
James Herriot
"Animals are such agreeable friends – they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms."
George Eliot
"For an animal person, an animal-less home is no home at all."
Cleveland Amory
"The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
Mahatma Gandhi
"Lots of people talk to animals... Not very many listen, though... That's the problem."
Benjamin Hoff
"The greatness of animals is that they are just themselves."
Alice Walker