If you’ve ever had a pet, you know how much they mean to you. They’re not just animals — they’re bona fide family members.
However, for people who’ve never had a pet, it can be hard to understand that bond. They just don’t get why you’re so attached to them, and they have no qualms admitting that. Here are 13 dismissive things people without pets often say, and why they don’t quite get it.
1. “It’s just a dog/cat.”
To a pet owner, their furry friend is part of the family. When someone says, “It’s just a dog or cat,” they’re dismissing the deep emotional connection that pet owners have with their animals. Pets offer companionship, love, and comfort, which makes this comment hurtful.
2. “Why do you spend so much on a pet?”
People who’ve never had a pet might not understand why owners are happy to spend money on things like vet bills, food, and toys. For pet owners, their animal’s wellbeing is a top priority, and they don’t think twice about spending money to keep them healthy and happy.
3. “You can’t be *that* upset over a pet dying.”
Losing a pet is incredibly painful, but people who’ve never had one often don’t realise just how deep the grief can be. Pets are constant companions, and their loss can feel like losing a family member. Dismissing someone’s grief over a pet can feel really insensitive.
4. “Why do you talk to your pet like they understand?”
Non-pet owners might think it’s silly to talk to animals, but most pet owners do it because it strengthens their bond. Pets might not understand every word, but they do pick up on your tone and emotions. Talking to pets is just part of how owners communicate with them.
5. “It’s not like you have kids.”
Some people compare having pets to having kids and suggest that pet owners have it easy. While pets aren’t the same as children, they still require a lot of time, effort, and care. This comment can feel dismissive of the challenges and responsibilities of pet ownership.
6. “You’re cancelling plans for your *pet*?”
Pet owners sometimes change plans because their animal needs them, whether it’s for a vet visit or just because they don’t want to leave them alone too long. People without pets might not understand why owners prioritise their pets, but for many, it’s a big part of their lives.
7. “I don’t get why people mourn pets so much.”
Grieving the loss of a pet is normal for owners, but people who’ve never had pets often don’t understand the depth of the loss. Pets are with their owners through highs and lows, so when they pass away, it leaves a huge hole in their lives.
8. “It’s weird how much you post about your pet.”
Sharing pictures or stories about a pet on social media might seem odd to non-pet owners, but for those with pets, it’s just like sharing updates about family. Pets bring a lot of joy, and owners naturally want to show them off.
9. “Why not just get rid of it if it’s sick?”
When a pet is unwell, some people suggest simply getting rid of them instead of dealing with the hassle or expense of treatment. This suggestion completely overlooks the emotional bond and commitment that pet owners have to their animals’ well-being.
10. “You’re being dramatic – it’s just an animal.”
Source: Unsplash Non-pet owners might see pet owners as overreacting to things like an illness or injury. But for pet owners, their animal’s health and happiness matter deeply. Dismissing their concern or calling them dramatic can feel unsupportive.
11. “Pets are so much work, why would you want that?”
Source: Unsplash Yes, pets are a lot of work, but to owners, the joy and companionship they bring far outweigh any effort involved. People who’ve never had pets may not understand why someone would take on the responsibility, but for most pet owners, it’s an easy decision.
12. “I don’t know why people treat their pets like family.”
Source: Unsplash For many pet owners, their animals *are* family. They share their homes, lives, and hearts with their pets. When people don’t understand that, it can feel like they’re dismissing a core part of what makes pet ownership so special.
13. “Why bother with pet insurance?”
People who’ve never had a pet might not see the point of pet insurance, but for owners, it’s a way to protect their animal’s health and manage unexpected vet bills. Just like humans need health insurance, pets do too, and it’s a way to show you’re prepared for whatever comes their way.
