People who treat their pets like their children usually possess these 7 unique qualities, says psychology

I remember my neighbor Jane, who treated her poodle like her own child. Some found it a tad eccentric, but to Jane, it was the most natural thing in the world.
And you know what?
Psychology says there’s more to Jane and people like her than meets the eye. In fact, folks who treat their pets like their little ones usually possess some unique qualities.
If you’re now thinking, “Wait, does my adoration for my golden retriever say something special about me?” you’re on the right track.
In this piece, we’ll be exploring seven unique qualities that are often found in people who treat their pets like family.
So, if you baby talk to your cat or have thrown a birthday party for your parrot, keep reading—you might just discover something fascinating about yourself!
1) High in empathy
You know that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when you see your dog wagging its tail at the sight of you? Or the way your heart melts when your cat curls up in your lap?
Yep, that’s empathy in action.
People who treat their pets like their children tend to be highly empathetic. They’re able to put themselves in their pet’s shoes (or paws) and understand how they might be feeling.
But this empathy isn’t limited to their pets. They’re typically more understanding and compassionate towards humans too.
So, if you’re someone who can’t help but worry about your budgie’s comfort when the weather turns cold, chances are you’re someone with a big heart for all creatures, feathered or not.
And honestly, in a world that can sometimes seem devoid of compassion, that’s a quality worth celebrating.
2) Possess a nurturing instinct
Have you ever caught yourself fretting over your pet’s wellbeing, just like a parent might worry about their child’s health? Well, you’re not alone.
Let me share something with you.
I have a beagle named Bailey. And there’s this one time when Bailey got sick. I rushed him to the vet, stayed up all night to keep him company, and even took a day off work to ensure he was recovering well.
Now, some might say that’s excessive, but to me and folks like us who treat pets like family, it felt… well, necessary.
This nurturing instinct is another common trait among pet parents.
It’s an inherent desire to care for and protect those who are dependent on us. And this instinct isn’t just limited to our pets; it often extends to our relationships with people as well.
Interestingly, psychologists have found that the love you possess for your pet is a lot like the love a mother has for their child.
So, if you fuss over your pet’s diet or losing sleep because they seem a bit ‘off’, know that it’s your nurturing instinct at play – and it’s something quite special.
3) Seek genuine connections
Do you remember that feeling when you first brought your pet home?
That instant bond, the silent understanding, and the sense of companionship that filled the room?
In a world where superficial connections are often the norm, people who treat their pets like their children crave something more substantial.
They seek genuine, unconditional love and companionship – something they find in their four-legged (or winged or finned) friends.
However, this yearning for authentic connection usually extends to their human relationships too.
They value sincerity, loyalty, and honesty – qualities they often find reflected in their pets.
4) Show resilience in stressful times
Imagine this scenario: You’ve had a rough day at work, your car broke down on the way home, and to top it all off, it started pouring rain.
But the moment you walk through the door, there’s your pet – wagging tail, purring, or chirping cheerfully. Instantly, your mood lifts.
Sound familiar?
People who treat their pets like their children tend to exhibit a greater resilience in stressful situations. Their pets provide a comforting presence, a source of happiness and relief from the tensions of daily life.
And here’s the interesting part:
Studies show that our pets provide many emotional and mental health benefits, including:
- They help to buffer stress
- They promote resilience
- They help us recover from adverse circumstances
So, next time you turn to your furry friend for comfort, take a moment to appreciate them for helping you become more resilient.
5) Have a heightened sense of responsibility
Did you know that owning a pet is akin to having a toddler around the house?
Pets, much like children, need constant care, attention, and love. It’s a 24/7 job with no days off.
People who treat their pets like their children naturally develop a heightened sense of responsibility. They’re always on their toes, ensuring their pet’s needs are met – be it:
- Feeding them on time
- Taking them for regular vet check-ups
- Making sure they’re happy and comfortable
This sense of responsibility often spills over into other areas of their lives.
Whether it’s fulfilling their work commitments or being reliable friends, these individuals tend to take their responsibilities seriously.
Having a pet nurtures a sense of responsibility that extends far beyond pet care.
6) Exhibit a deep capacity for love
There’s something profoundly beautiful about the love between a person and their pet. It’s pure, unconditional, and often, limitless.
People who treat their pets as their children don’t just ‘own’ them; they share a deep emotional connection with them.
They rejoice in their pets’ happiness, grieve their loss, and stand by them through thick and thin.
Interestingly, scientists have uncovered a genetic difference in people who show deep love and compassion for animals.
The difference lies in a gene that produces oxytocin – commonly called the love hormone – which boosts social bonding between people.
So if you’ve ever found yourself tearing up at the sight of your pet sleeping peacefully or felt your heart swell with love when they do something silly, know that this is due to your extraordinary capacity for love.
7) Value companionship over ownership
Here’s the thing:
People who treat their pets like their children see beyond the traditional owner-pet dynamic. They view their pets as companions, equals, and in many ways, as members of their family.
They don’t believe in ‘having’ a pet; they believe in ‘sharing’ a life with them.
They cherish the shared moments, the silent conversations, and even the occasional disagreements (yes, pets can have their tantrums too!).
This viewpoint often translates to how they interact with people as well. They value mutual respect, equality, and companionship in their relationships.
Embracing your unique qualities
If you’ve been nodding along as you read these traits, know this—you belong to a special group of people who share an extraordinary bond with their pets.
What’s even more beautiful is that these qualities aren’t just about your connection with your pet. They reflect the essence of who you are.
They reveal your deep capacity for empathy, your nurturing nature, your resilience, and your ability to love without limits.
So take a moment to appreciate both yourself and the unique relationship you share with your pet.
Reflect on the joy and companionship they bring into your life, and celebrate the qualities this bond reveals about you—qualities that make you not just a devoted pet parent, but an extraordinary person.