Most dog owners consider their pets members of their family. The truth is that when an animal is welcomed into our lives and our homes, it should indeed be treated as such.
Because of their love for their cats and dogs, people usually refer to them as to their “fur babies,” and as cute as that sounds, there are people who find that offensive. Yes, you’ve heard that right.
A mom of three caused a stir and divided people’s opinions when she wrote that calling the animals “fur babies” is “an insult to moms.”
Before sharing her opinion on the matter, the mom was aware that many would think of her as of a “self-righteous parent,” and she was right about that as comments started flooding.
Some people pointed out to the fact that the term “fur babies” is widely spread and that it is even included in the Cambridge Dictionary which identifies it as “a pet, especially one that someone treats with a lot of love and kindness as if it were a baby.”
Forbes reports that 85 per cent of dog owners and 76 per cent of cat owners consider their pets to be a member of the family. Additionally, a survey reveals that out of 2,000 respondents, 81 per cent say they treat their pets the same way they treat people and 71 per cent regularly put their pets needs ahead of their own.
That same study shows that 47 per cent call their pets “baby,” and one in three people refer to themselves as their fur baby’s “mom or dad.”
Still, Elizabeth Broadbent, the mom in question, claims that babies and pets can never be the same.
“…But never did we call those beloved canines “furkids” or “furbabies”. Because the last I checked, dogs ain’t people,” she wrote for a 2022 online publication. “Your puppy is not your child, so stop saying that he is. I have three children now, and I know this for certain–kids and dogs are not the same.”
As expected, pet owners were quick to answer back.
“She has too much time on her hands…I’m pretty sure everyone is well aware of the differences. I have 2 children and I love my fur baby,” one social media user wrote.
“She is absolutely right, they are not the same, which is why dogs are furbabies, children are skinpuppies and kids are baby goats,” another added.
“Dogs who we love are like babies with fur they are the most loyal of all beings if treated with love…this lady knows nothing to make this sad request to others …it’s a free world,” a third person commented.
To support her claims, Broadbent explained that when her children were born, she was forced to babyproof her entire place, and that included removing “strangulation hazards,” hiding “cleaning fluids” and placing “safety locks on all the cabinets.”
On the other hand, for puppy-proofing “you removed all things chewable, took up poisonous plants, and provided appropriate chew toys,” she added.
The American Kennel Club expressed their opinion regarding Broadbent’s writing and said she missed a few crucial pet-proofing details such as removing/hiding all chewing hazards (cords, plants, food, medication), placing cleaning supplies in a safe place, securing cupboards with childproof latches, and raising blinds to avoid strangulation.
Broadbent doesn’t deny that having a pet requires a lot of responsibility.
“Pet ownership is a serious commitment that should only be taken up by those who really mean to care for an animal for the rest of its natural life.” Suggesting that “you can most ignore your dog,” she continues, “You’re stuck with your dog…except you’re not because you can leave. Before my husband and I had kids, we traveled all the time–dropped the pups by the doggie spa, paid extra for playground time, and hopped the plane guilt-free.”
Dr. Katy Nelson, senior veterinarian at Chewy, took a stand and said, “Pets have become our whole world, so it’s no surprise to see them claim their rightful place of prominence in the household.
“This reflects the larger trend of ‘pet prioritization,’ or placing our pets’ needs above our own when considering major life decisions or planning our social calendars and daily behaviors.”
Other comments regarding Broadband’s post included: “So, I have two daughters and a fur baby. My daughters call the fur baby their little brother. My husband and I call him our son. He knows each of us by name. If my husband tells him to go to Mommy, he’s immediately at my feet. Some people cannot accept that these ‘fur babies’ are a part of our family.”
The same user continued: “They are loved, and they love us back fiercely and unconditionally. I personally feel sorry for people who never experienced the unconditional love of a dog. Maybe then, they would understand ‘fur babies.’”
Another person wrote, “Why can’t they all be darling? I treat my fur baby as I would want to be treated. I show my son that same love and respect. I have enough love to go around!”
And someone else added: “Totally agree with you! My fur babies are more behaved than some “darling” children as well!!”
Yet another pet owner shared their opinion writing: “My dogs, cats and whatever else I have as a family can be my “babies” whether they have fur, feathers, skin or scales. Each of them have a special place in my heart and life that gives them a loving title of my choosing. So don’t offend me with your tiny little closed mind, and crawl back under your rock.”
We truly believe that our pets deserve the titles of “fur babies.” What about you? What’s your opinion on this matter?
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Bored Daddy
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