There’s a big difference between people who just own pets and those who truly love them like children.
This distinction comes down to behavior. People who treat their pets as part of the family don’t just feed them and provide shelter, they also nurture their emotional needs.
These so-called ‘pet parents’ often exhibit unique behaviors that set them apart from regular pet owners.
Here are 7 unique behaviors typically exhibited by people who love their pets like children. And trust me, if you’re one of them, you’ll definitely relate.
1) Prioritizing their pet’s health
If you’ve ever seen a pet parent in action, you’ll know that their furry friend’s health is their number one priority.
Pet parents don’t just feed their pets – they invest time and energy into researching the best diet for them. They don’t just take them to the vet when they’re sick – they schedule regular check-ups to ensure their beloved pet is in tip-top shape.
Think about it. This is similar to how concerned parents would care for their children’s health. Regular doctor visits, balanced meals, and even vitamins are all part of the routine.
It’s this level of dedication and attention to detail that sets pet parents apart. Their pets aren’t just animals – they’re family members who deserve the best care possible.
But remember, it’s not about spoiling your pet with excess. It’s about understanding their needs and ensuring they’re met, just like how you would care for a child.
2) Celebrating milestones and birthdays
I have a confession to make: I throw birthday parties for my dog. And trust me, I’m not the only one.
Pet parents like myself often celebrate their pets’ birthdays or adoption days with as much excitement as they would for their own child’s birthday. We buy special treats, invite fellow animal lovers and their pets over, and even get our beloved pets presents.
I remember one year, I baked a dog-friendly cake and had a mini-party with my close friends and their pets. We all wore party hats, including my dog! It was a fun-filled day that I’m sure my pup enjoyed as much as we did.
This behavior might seem excessive to some, but to us pet parents, it’s just another way of showing our love and appreciation for our furry family members. Their milestones matter just as much as ours do.
3) Inclusion in family portraits
Ever noticed how in some family photos, there’s a furry or feathered member included? This is another unique behavior of pet parents. Their pets aren’t just pets; they’re members of the family, and as such, deserve to be included in all family portraits.
In fact, the trend of including pets in family photos has grown so much that many professional photographers now offer pet photography as part of their services.
It’s not uncommon to see a family photo with everyone posed perfectly – mom, dad, kids, and of course, the dog or cat (or both!) right there in the center.
And it’s not just about having them in the picture. Pet parents often go above and beyond to make sure their pets look their best for these photoshoots – grooming them, dressing them up, and even training them to strike the perfect pose!
4) Regular quality time
Just like any parent-child relationship, pet parents understand the importance of spending quality time with their pets. This is not just about feeding them or taking them for walks, but truly engaging with them.
You’ll often find pet parents playing with their pets, teaching them new tricks, or even just cuddling with them on the couch. These activities are not just fun, they also help to strengthen the bond between pet and owner.
Quality time isn’t just good for the pet. Studies show that interacting with animals can help reduce stress and increase happiness in humans. So, it’s a win-win situation!
Quality time doesn’t mean you have to spend every minute of the day with your pet. It’s about making the most of the time you do spend together.
5) Feeling their absence deeply
I still remember the day I had to leave for a week-long business trip, leaving my cat behind for the first time. The house felt different without her.
There was no one to greet me in the morning, no soft purring sound to accompany me while I worked from home, and no one to curl up with me on the couch while I watched TV.
Pet parents often experience this deep sense of absence when they’re away from their pets. It’s not just about missing their physical presence, but also the routines and interactions that come with having them around.
This is why many pet parents would rather travel with their pets or find pet-friendly accommodations when they have to be away. If that’s not an option, they’d ensure their pets are well taken care of by someone they trust.
For pet parents, it’s not about being over-attached. It’s about acknowledging the important role our pets play in our lives and how much we miss them when they’re not around.
6) They consider their pet’s comfort
Pet parents will go the extra mile to ensure their pets are comfortable, both at home and outside.
This means investing in high-quality pet beds, making sure the house temperature is pet-friendly, and even taking their pet’s comfort into consideration when choosing a new car or house.
You’ll often find pet parents researching extensively about the best pet products or seeking professional advice to ensure their home environment is safe and comfortable for their pets.
For instance, they might buy a car with a spacious back seat for their large dog or choose a house with a fenced yard so their pets can run around safely.
This level of consideration reflects the deep bond between pet parents and their pets. Their comfort is our comfort, and their happiness is our happiness.
7) Their pet’s happiness matters
At the end of the day, what sets pet parents apart is their genuine concern for their pet’s happiness. They don’t just look after their pet’s physical needs but also their emotional wellbeing.
They make an effort to understand their pet’s likes and dislikes, their behavior, and their body language.
They provide toys, playtime, and plenty of affection to ensure their pets are not just surviving, but truly thriving.
Pet parents know that a happy pet makes a happy home, and they’ll do whatever it takes to keep that tail wagging.
The heart of the matter: It’s all about love
The behaviors of pet parents may be diverse and unique, but they all stem from one universal emotion: Love.
Much like the bond between a parent and child, the bond between a pet parent and their pet is built on unconditional love and mutual respect. This love manifests itself in various behaviors, from celebrating their pet’s birthday to ensuring their comfort and happiness.
Interestingly, research has shown that interacting with pets can lead to the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the ‘love hormone’.
This hormone, known for its role in bonding and social interactions, might explain why pet parents form such deep connections with their pets.
Next time you see someone treating their pet like a child, remember – it’s not just about spoiling or anthropomorphizing an animal. It’s about a profound bond of love and companionship that makes our lives richer and more meaningful.
As a pet parent, are you seeing your behaviors reflected in this list? And if you’re not a pet parent yet, could this be the love you didn’t know you were missing?
