Yes. I talk to my animals. My husband talks to his gerbils, too. My cats respond and understand (they come when called 90% of the time, and I don't mean with a can of tuna or anything). My snake, Nyoka.... well, we're still getting acquainted. Often, she'll get a "What -are- you doing?" The mice get talked to, also. I'm not one to use a baby voice, though.