Are pets the new children? Exploring modern pet ownership

We love our pets, don’t we? Some of us treat them like children, friends, and companions. They populate our social media feeds, dominate our conversations, and join our weekend adventures. To properly care for a pet, one tends to do similar things one would do for a child. Feeding, washing, and walking activities keep you busy.

Some pet owners treat their animals as well as they would treat children, spending enormous amounts of money on training, clothing, and accessories of all kinds. One might argue that if North Americans would spend as much time, effort, and money on social justice activities as they do on their pets, world hunger might become a thing of the past.

Talking to our pets provides a marvelous, cost-effective way to deal with emotional and mental issues. A dog acts like a psychologist, listening and emotionally reacting to your words. While they understand some words, they also recognize when you’re emotionally energized; when you laugh, cry, feel nervous, or even experience depression. Their love and affection are pure, much like a newborn baby’s.

North Americans spend over $2.7 billion annually on their pets, whether they swim, walk, or fly. As families wait to learn if adult children are expecting, they continue to “bubble wrap” their pets as best they can. If a miracle happens and they become grandparents, what will happen to their pets? They might not receive the attention they’re accustomed to, but pets are usually considered part of the family as well.

Are children more expensive to raise than pets? The answer is both yes and no. It depends on your expectations and financial budget. Are pets easier to care for? Not necessarily, as they can be as demanding as children (except for cats, who seem to care for themselves). We receive similar love and attention in return from both children and pets. Give, and you shall receive in time.

Caring for a pet resembles a training exercise that prepares you for parenthood, just with responsibilities that never end. You worry about them constantly and think about them throughout the day. Like the bond between owners and their pets, a true friendship develops whether we’re talking about a pet or a child. Love and friendship know no boundaries.