In a survey conducted in 2022, around one in four cat and dog owners consider their pets to be their “children.” Shelby Susnick from Atlanta, Georgia, believes there is a clear distinction between being a dog parent and a dog owner. She emphasizes that dog parents view their pets as part of the family and often adjust their schedules to accommodate their dogs, while dog owners may see their pets as simply animals they own. Susnick herself considers her dog, Russell, to be her son, rather than just a pet.
Russell, a rehomed dog, was saved from parvovirus with Susnick’s love and care. Susnick shares their daily activities on TikTok under the handle @booplethesnoot, showcasing their happy life together. In one of her videos, Susnick addresses the differences between being a dog parent and an owner, highlighting scenarios where a parent would show more empathy and concern towards their pet compared to an owner. For example, a dog parent might interrupt a work meeting to check on their sick pup, demonstrating a deeper emotional connection with their pet.
Susnick’s video on the topic of being a dog parent has resonated with many viewers, garnering over 1.3 million views. She is pleased with the response and believes that there are more dog parents out there than owners, with many striving to become better pet parents. She encourages people to see their pets as part of the family and to prioritize spending time with them, as dogs view their owners as their whole life. The conversations sparked by the video have led to discussions about the responsibilities and joys of being a pet parent.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground. They invite readers to share funny and adorable videos or pictures of their pets for a chance to be featured in the Pet of the Week lineup. Susnick’s perspective on being a dog parent versus a dog owner sheds light on the deep emotional bonds that can exist between humans and their pets, emphasizing the importance of empathy, care, and understanding in the relationship. By recognizing pets as integral members of the family, individuals can strive to provide the love and support that their furry companions deserve.
