Being a Pet Parent in the Age of Social Media

Hello, welcome back. I hope you’re having a wonderful weekend with your dog/s.

Last week, Linda shared how “acts of kindness are wonderful things, because they benefit both the giver as well as the receiver.” Unfortunately, in today’s digital age, being a pet parent comes with an added layer of scrutiny and feelings of being judged - all thanks to the joy that is social media!

How many times have you seen - or experienced for yourself - people being unkind online?

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are filled with pictures and videos of perfectly groomed dogs, the most amazing bowls of food for dogs, and guardians appearing to live their best life with impeccably behaved dogs. But there’s a reason the phrase “insta vs. reality” has been coined!

While these spaces can provide a source of inspiration, they can also breed feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. They also welcome the ‘keyboard warriors’ of the world, quite happy to blast their opinions everywhere due to the relative anonymity that the digital - rather than physical - world allows.

It’s important to remember to be kind to yourself when spending time in this often judgmental digital landscape.

We often joke that you should never discuss religion, politics or what you feed your dog! Everyone has an opinion. This can lead into many areas of dog parenting - what harness or collar you use, where you walk your dog, if you let them off-lead or not, if they sleep in your bed or downstairs… the list goes on.

It can be easy to fall into a trap of feeling judged. Not good enough. Like you’re not being the best parent - which we know you really are!

Remember the snapshot images of perfect lives capture moments, not the full reality. Behind the scenes there will have been mistakes, setbacks, and learning curves. The comments written in haste are usually coming from a mis-placed sense of passion for dog welfare - without fully understanding your or your dog’s needs.

Try to surround yourself with supportive communities, both online and offline. Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate or are too black and white in their commentary. And remember to take breaks from social media when needed!

With that in mind, myself and Linda are being kind to ourselves today - as we share this last post before our summer break. We’re stepping away from the keyboard for a short while, but very much look forward to connecting with you again soon.

Until then, have a kind, calm and relaxing summer alongside your canine companions.

Caroline