As a fur parent, I am constantly on the lookout for other fur parents to talk about our babies with. Why gossip about people when you have such an adorable pup to brag about? In my family, the dogs are family members. If you visited, you might be convinced that our dogs do not even realize they are dogs. It takes a special person to be a dog parent and to be able to put up with all the love and sass that our fur babies give us every moment. From snoring and running in their sleep to turning their heads when we ask a question, we couldn't go on without our furry friends. We love them like they are our flesh and blood, and our dogs, cats and pets of any kind deserve to be appreciated and loved, especially if they are our fur child. Here are 10 tips to figure out if you are in the community of "dog parents."
1. You talk to your dog.
Let's be honest. They are the best listeners.
2. You let them sleep with you or at least near you.
People without dogs or those who don't particularly like animals may assume that dogs sleep outside or in a crate. However, I sleep best when my little fur baby is cuddled up next to me.
3. You call them your child more than you call them your dog.
If one truly is a dog parent, one knows that the dog doesn't realize it's a dog.
4. You go down the pet aisle in every store.
Even though our fur babies have plenty of toys, they always need a new one. Some of the toys even have silent squeakers!
5. You get excited to see a pet supply store.
From the beds that look like little igloos to the treats at the register that look like they are in a bakery, every dog parent is overwhelmed when walking into a store and thinking of buying one's fur baby little treats that look like donuts.
6. You say bye to them multiple times before you leave because it breaks your heart to leave them.
Dogs are smart. It is almost like they can sense when you are leaving and immediately begin to pout, at least my dog does. We already wish we could stay at home, cuddle with them and watch Netflix all day. So the fact they won't lick you due to them pouting is enough to shatter your heart!
7. You hold them like a baby, no matter how big of a dog they are.
Every dog wants to be a lap dog. Since they are your babies, it makes sense to cuddle them and make sure they feel safe, especially during fireworks or thunderstorms.
8. You have more pictures of them on your phone than of yourself.
We have to document every cute moment, whether they are asleep or making a cute face at us.
9. You tell stories about them and show people pictures of them like they are your children.
If you're a fur parent, your fur baby is your child, so you talk about all of the adorable looks your baby makes and how your baby successfully pooped outside.
10. You firmly believe people don't deserve dogs.
Dogs are literally here to be adorable; that's their job. If dogs are mean, it is because humans made them that way. Our furry friends love us so much, so much that I feel like I will never be able to love on them enough!
