In the modern American culture, pets are increasingly treated as family members. Dogs, cats, birds, and other small animals have always been an important part of the family. As American culture evolved in the last twenty years, these domesticated companions have taken on an even more important role.
More young couples are not just getting married later in life; they are delaying having children until older. As a result, pets seem to have taken the place of children in the lives of young couples and as such, they are treated much the same way that children are. Indeed, many people refer to their pets as their "kids" and owners are themselves referred to as "pet parents" by those in the companion animal industry.
For middle aged American couples, pets are a welcome relief to empty houses as their children grow up and move out. These pets help make the transition easier. For older Americans, a pet often helps one get through the death of a spouse or loss of a job.
Whole industries have been created to service these pet families. These include dog walkers, pet sitters, doggie daycare, backyard "pooper" scoopers, pet insurance, and of course, the pet photography specialist. Several major insurance companies have even added options for pet insurance. It makes sense that this unique member of the family is included in the annual family portrait and at other family functions. Dogs are even showing up at weddings as part of the wedding party and are included in the wedding portraits as well. More often we are seeing portraits of a dog or cat on a co-workers desk along with their other family members. Some proud pet owners even carry small sized photos of their pal in their wallet.
Unlike thirty years ago, an animal in a family portrait is no longer considered an oddity, but is seen as just another loved family member. Are your "furry friends" included in your family portraits?
Good article. Who wrote it?
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