I have this pet peeve, and would like other's opinions on it. I get so annoyed when people say that having a dog is like having a baby. For example, someone on my myspace was telling me how cute my baby was, and then said that they have a new dog, and it's like she has a baby too. What do I say to that? There is NO comparison.
I'm surprised at my reaction, because I am a really easy-going person. I guess it's because my daughter is getting two teeth in at the exact same time, and is extremely grumpy. She is also learning how to walk, so there is this underlining fear of a serious fall. I think it takes a special kind of person to be a (good) mother, so it almost feels like an insult when someone says that having a puppy is the same thing as a child.
I guess I just need a nap..LOL
2007-10-12 04:55:19 · 14 answers · asked by linedancer563 6 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
I agree with you 100%. I am also an easy going nice person, but people are CRAZY if they think raising a pet and a baby are anywhere near the same thing...
I'm not saying people don't really love their pets, but caring for them isn't even close. Or if it is close for some people, they aren't caring for their baby enough!
2007-10-12 05:58:17 · answer #1 · answered by amber 18 5 · 2⤊ 4⤋
I understand what you are saying- but I think folks are trying to share an experience with you any way they can. It sometimes annoys me & I am on to grandchildren now. That being said I wish some parents would remember that (like with puppies) you shouldn't put up with behaviors that are cute/OK when little but you won't like when they are big & that little ones shouldn't be in charge- Clearly you put a lot of thought & work into being a good Mom- take a nap & smile indulgently at these "puppie parents"- you know the truth.
2007-10-12 12:16:14 · answer #2 · answered by tattooedwilla 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I'm a new mother as well as a pet lover, and I have always said that my pets were my children before I had my baby. Emotionally, I think pets can sometimes be like children to people. But, you're right. As far as taking care of a child is concerned and loving a child, Idon't think there is any comparison either. It doesn't necessarily bother me though. The people that I know who think of their pets this way don't have any children, and I think it's okay for them to fill that void with pets if they need to.
Just take a deep breath and let them think they're having a parenting experience.
As far as your baby teething, just hang in there and take alot of deep breaths. My son got his first tooth at two weeks, and is cutting teeth now also. We keep his pacifiers in the freezer and ready to go, as well as his teething rings and orajel.
2007-10-12 12:11:32 · answer #3 · answered by al_xs_mama_jama 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I agree with you.
I agree with dog owners too..
The big thing is, I agree with the feelings being similar for a pet as they can be for a person...
The difference, however, is you cannot tell me, ever that losing a pet would feel the same as losing a child... It's not even close.
Secondly, people will say having a dog is as much work as having a baby... Yeah, right... c'mon now... at least dogs can be left alone if you need a night to yourself... not the same with a kid.
Dogs don't wake you up several times a night for feedings, bum changes etc.
I have pets who I absolutely love... I have kids who I love a whole lot more.
I can see both sides, but I agree with you 100%
2007-10-12 12:56:09 · answer #4 · answered by Mom2Boyzz 3 · 2⤊ 2⤋
Yes, you need to take a nap. I have had both a baby and a puppy. So I can speak about this with some authority. To some their pet is as important as some of their family members. If someone has a puppy, they do have a baby of sorts. They have to feed it a special diet, potty train it, get it it's shots, buy it toys. Also a person who says they just a puppy is trying to create a bond with you by saying they have something young to take care of as well. So stop being so cranky and be happy for the person with the new puppy.
2007-10-12 12:05:27 · answer #5 · answered by Lori E 4 · 8⤊ 2⤋
Awww sounds like your having a tough time. I know what you mean though. I used to love my cats like kids till I had my baby. Shes a ton of work (and a ton of joy) but nothing like a pet. I also hate when people think I can just get a babysitter and go out and party etc. Babies are much more complex then just finding someone to watch her. She 5 months almost and very attached to me. She breast feeds and crys allot when its not mommy doing her care. So I agree shes not like a puppy. Ive never seen anyone breastfeed there puppy to sleep. Man I think I need a nap 2....hahaha
Edit... Dont get me wrong I LOVE animals. We love our 2 cats and were hoping to finally get a dog next year. Pets are lots of work but not like my daughter is. Plus I love my pets but not even close to the love I have for my daughter. If it came down to choosing my daughter would win hands down.
2007-10-12 12:21:59 · answer #6 · answered by lovelylady 5 · 2⤊ 2⤋
Feel insulted all you want, you are also being insulting. My dog is just as improtant to me as your baby is to you. I also treat my dog better than most people treat their kids. Plus you do no know the reason people use that comparison. Years ago in costmetology school I was fitting a wig for a woman who lost her hair-she had cancer. She knew she was never going to have a baby. This woman's mother was with and took out a purse size photo album of her daughter's "baby". It was a Tennesse Walker complete with birth photos. She knew this was the closest she would ever have to a grandchild. She said her friends are showing off their grandchildren all the time and she like to show off her daughter's baby. Sorry for sounding so harsh at first but just as you would not like someone bad mouthing you for having a baby don't be so critical of us that have a baby with a tail.
2007-10-12 12:28:25 · answer #7 · answered by hoppykit 6 · 4⤊ 3⤋
No you don't need a nap! No yapping puppy can ever compare to a baby screaming and unconsolable with colic haha! There are similarities but it is NOT anywhere near the same. Other answerers, don't get mad at me, I am a pet lover and a foster mom for abandoned kittens but it was so different when I had my daughter, it's an uncomparable love. I think you are entitled to how you feel!
2007-10-12 12:36:13 · answer #8 · answered by Alexa's Mom 4 · 5⤊ 3⤋
You probably do need a nap. I think it is a good analogy, because I think it also takes a special kind of person to be a good dog owner. And if you are thinking about having a child then house training a puppy is good practice. There are lots of people out there with kids who have no business being parents and there are lots of people out there who have no business having pets. And don't forget the people who can't have children. I know a couple who have been ttc for over 10 years, their dogs are their children. Get some rest, people who compare dogs to babies usually just really love dogs, they don't mean to insult babies or moms.
2007-10-12 12:04:19 · answer #9 · answered by kat 7 · 7⤊ 5⤋
Take a nap :) Get some rest. Dog people LOVE, LOVE, LOVE their dogs. They treat them like family members, think of Oprah!!! Anyhow, I had a dog for 14 years and he was the BEST. I loved him dearly and miss him quite a bit to this day (he died of congestive heart failure 4yrs ago). So, I'm sure your girlfriend was just making small talk and LOVES her dog just like you LOVE your baby. She did not mean any harm at all. I have 2 friends that don't have or want any children...but, they do have 2 dogs. I say...good for them :)
2007-10-12 12:18:26 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 2⤋