One thing you and I probably share is a deep love for animals. We’ll always have that common ground to chat about. But what about people with whom you don’t have that immediate connection? Not only do we regularly bump into dog and cat people who treat animals differently than we do, but some people aren’t all that keen on having animals around them at all! (I know.. WHAT? .. bare with me… )
People Find Joy in Different Ways
For many folks, furry friends are like family. They’re the first ones we greet in the morning and the last ones we say goodnight to. Taking care of them can be a big responsibility, but totally worth it. It’s hard to imagine our homes without them, which can make it a bit mind-boggling that some people choose not to have pets at all!
But people pull joy from lots of different things or beings. Travel, art, their children, spouse, human friendship, rare and beautiful belongings, music, the intricacies of a racing car engine, the thrill of skydiving – you replace these with things you know people love that you don’t connect with.
Why Do Some People Choose Not to Share Their Home with a Pet?
There are lots of reasons people in your community choose to live pet-free, and it often doesn’t have anything to do with actually disliking animals. Here are some reasons:
- Lifestyle Restrictions: Some people would love a pet, but their income, landlord, health, or travel for work doesn’t permit it.
- Past Experiences: Traumatic experiences with animals can lead to fear or avoidance of some types of pets.
- Phobias: Some people have phobias or anxieties about certain species.
- Cleanliness Preferences: For some, the extra mess a pet can bring isn’t for them.
- Lack of Experience: People who didn’t grow up with pets might not know how to handle them.
- Allergies: This is for real and some people just can’t be healthy when living with pets.
Ways to Be More Inclusive in a Pet-Diverse Community
While we like to say we’re a pet-loving society, we share our space with people who have different priorities. The US has pet ownership rates around 57-66%, which means there are many pet-free homes! Here are ways to be a kind neighbor to everyone:
- Leash Lessons: Leash training is crucial for community living. Keep your dog under control to avoid startling passersby.
- Also, wheeling a pet in a stroller requires responsibility too. Secure your pet and be mindful of others.
- Poop Patrol: Scooping after your pet is essential. No one enjoys stepping in waste.
- Distraction Techniques: Train your dog to respond to you when they bark at triggers, instead of letting them become a nuisance.
- Offer Fur-Free Seating: Consider keeping a throw on hand to offer guests a fur-free seat.
- Be Aware of Zoomies: A sudden burst of energy from your pet can be startling to others. Give a heads-up to companions if your pet is prone to zoomies.
- Self-awareness: Be honest about your dog’s behavior. If your dog pulls on the leash or barks excessively, consider training classes.
- Cafe Manners: Respect restaurants that allow pets. Train your dog to be calm before bringing them to patios or cafes. Not everyone wants a furry friend in their lap.
- Respect Boundaries: Don’t assume everyone loves your pet. If your pet visits neighbors uninvited, take steps to keep them on your property/or personal space.
Be a Community-Inclusive Pet Parent
Deep down, we all secretly believe our pets are the cutest, cuddliest creatures on the planet, right? And maybe, just maybe, everyone should want to shower them with affection and let them sprawl out on the furniture like royalty. (Hey, a pet parent can dream!) But in all seriousness, being a truly pawsome pet parent means recognizing that not everyone shares our animal adoration.
Let’s spread love and courtesies to our pet-free neighbors too!
Pawsitive Landing Project 