How to Not View Pets as Products

We all have our own particular tastes in pets; some of us like them bigger, others like them smaller. Some of us are "dog people" and others are "cat people." Then there are those of us that prefer rabbits to canines or felines. Then among us "dog people," some of us like purebreds; others of us like good old "mutts" and some of us favor only one or two breeds. But the bottom line--although perhaps a fine line--is that all animals can make wonderful, loving pets--and we need to shake the notion that pets are "products."

This really hit home for me as I watched a couple of women go into a pet store and take pictures of a puppy that they were interested in. Did they actually need pictures of this puppy to know if she would make a good pet? Or was it to see if she would match the drapes, perhaps? Then I started wondering if when they choose their friends, do they need to pass an appearance test as well?

Here is how to get passed the idea that pets are products.

Instructions

    • 1

      Narrow down your choice of pet based on factors such as your living space, lifestyle and the pet's temperament and needs.

    • 2

      Don't have a specific color in mind for your pet or require a pet with certain "markings." A tan Chihuahua would make just as loving a pet as a chocolate Chihuahua. A "flat-nosed" pug is not any better than a regular, traditional pug (I thought they all had flat noses, anyway).

    • 3

      Keep in mind that "papers" mean basically nothing. The AKC sold this scam to sell papers; that is how they make their money. Unfortunately, they also sell papers to irresponsible "backyard" breeders and puppy mills--and if you know how these types of "breeders" raise their dogs--papers literally mean squat. Besides, why would you need papers for a family member?--which is really what a pet should be--a living, breathing member of the family that loves unconditionally, feels pain and fear and knows the meaning of loyalty.

    • 4

      Don't look for a dog or cat simply because it is a rare breed. There is a reason Labrador retrievers and boxers are popular; they are sweet, lovable dogs that make great pets. It's not like a pair of shoes or an outfit that you want to stand out. And think about it, who will really be impressed that you have a rare breed of dog, anyway? By the same token, don't buy a pet simply because it is expensive. That's a very silly reason, and again, who will it impress?

    • 5

      Don't get a pet simply to show him off or carry her around in your purse. That is not a good enough reason to get a pet; it just means you view your pet as a product or "arm candy." If you want arm candy, buy a new purse, and if you want something to show off, how about a shiny, new car? Anything can suit that purpose-anything inanimate, that is.

    • 6

      Try not to be stuck on the notion that you have to have a purebred dog or that it has to be a puppy or kitten. Consider that there are plenty of wonderful, loving mutts sitting in shelters through no fault of their own that would appreciate a second chance at life. And that puppy or kitten will eventually grow up, and then what? Are you going to get rid of the cat because she's not as "cute" anymore or because the dog got "too big?"