To me, loving animals is not just only about how they make us feel. It's an act of seeing them with as much compassion and clarity that we can at the time.
It's easy to dread interacting with some of these people. Often, we can't avoid them--especially if they are a boss or a family member. I find this helps.
Don't beat yourself if you find you're not always a shining beacon of wisdom. Going through these moments are, too, a way that you continue to grow in wisdom.
I don't know what I'd do without my cats. They can be delightfully affectionate companions who can instantly lower your stress levels in almost tangible ways.
To me, loving animals is not just only about how they make us feel. It's an act of seeing them with as much compassion and clarity that we can at the time.
Life begins to feel shallow if we're not filling it with anything else except ourselves. Reach out to someone you love. Find something to be passionate about.