By: Elaine Xu

The pet population is rising everywhere. Around two-thirds of American households have a pet, collectively spending a stunning $136.8 billion on their pets annually.

And we are treating our pets more and more like humans. However, some experts are concerned. They worry that treating our pets like us might hinder their natural instincts and even lead to health and behavioral problems.

Jessica Pierce, a bioethicist in Colorado, is concerned about the relationship between humans and pets. “We’re at an odd moment of obsession with pets,” said Dr. Pierce. “There are too many of them and we keep them too intensively. It’s not good for us and it’s not good for them.” This means that
Pet confinements, including crates, fences, harnesses, and e-collars, are being bought in increasing numbers. Dr. Pierce argues that these excessively limit dogs’ freedom, even if they also prevent dangers like car accidents.

Because it takes a lot of money to care for pets, greater pet care standards may be contributing to an increase in pet abandonment. In 2023 alone, 359,000 dogs were dropped off at shelters, according to Shelter Animals Count.

Nowadays, most domesticated cats are kept indoors. Fear of bird predation keeps many cats indoors. Even city dogs, who freely roamed the streets in 1980s, are now kept leashed.

For a pet owner, Dr. Serpell offered this advice: “By all means enjoy your dog’s companionship. But dogs are not people. Get to know the animal from its own perspective instead of forcing them to comply with yours. It enables you to vicariously experience the life of another being.”