Dear Reverend,
My older sister never had children, but she has two little dogs that she treats like her kids. She buys them clothes, fancy beds and all sorts of toys. She even takes them out in a stroller sometimes and calls them her “fur babies.” She’s getting another puppy, and now she wants to have a baby shower — for a dog! I understand that people love their pets, but I think she’s going too far. Should I say something?
Kaye Neine (woman, 32)
Dear Kaye Neine,
These days, lots of people refer to their pets as fur babies or fur kids — and even call themselves a “dog mom” or “cat dad.” Those may just seem like cutesy terms, but they’re an easy way for people to express how important the animals are to them.
Many pet guardians, with or without children, would say they love their animals just as much as they would a human child. And there’s science behind that feeling. Studies have shown that dogs and cats can make our human brains release a chemical called oxytocin. It’s often referred to as “the love hormone,” and it’s the same chemical responsible for parent-baby bonding.
If your sister actually believed that she gave birth to her dogs, then I’d say you have a big problem on your hands. Since that’s not an issue, as long as she can afford to spoil her furry friends and it makes her happy, there’s no reason to rain on her parade.
Some dog breeds may need to wear outfits to stay warm in our cold climate. And maybe your sister takes them out in the stroller because she’s worried about the pavement being too hot or cold for their paws. Perhaps what you see as being over the top is just plain practicality and responsible pet care.
You don’t need to call her dogs your nieces and nephews, but your family is gaining a new furry member, so why not join the joy? All you need to say to her is: “When is the party, and what can I bring?”
Good luck and God bless,
The Reverend
This article appears in Nov 5-11 2025.
