Your most desired pet in an ideal world?

[.:neuko:.]

I'm not allowed to have pets where I live, so I've never really got round to thinking of pets to keep in my house. However I saw a wildlife conservation documentary the other day--which got me thinking: I really wouldn't mind having an elephant (or rather, at least two since they are social animals) for a pet under ideal circumstances. Sure they might be high-maintenance due to their large size, and no doubt expensive to feed and such; but at the same time, I think the sense of companionship I'd get from an elephant would sure outweigh the costs--not to mention, I just might be helping the declining elephant population to thrive once again. I cannot really fault elephants either: imo they are gentle, peaceful, the right side of playful, intelligent, cooperative, social--and they always seem to look cheerful and content in everything they do.

So my question is: in an ideal world where you'd have the time, resources and budget, which animal (or animals) would you have for a pet? Feel free to elaborate if you wish.