Stop using dogs as an accessory

Photo courtesy of Suhas Hanjar/Pexels

For years, I have been angered by people purchasing animals—especially dogs—unethically, or without  allocating the proper time and resources to owning an animal. Amid a rise in social media and influencers taking center stage, this problem has become more clear; people with platforms need to stop using dogs as accessories and be more mindful about dog ownership. 

An overwhelming majority of influencers seem to be purchasing dogs, and not doing their research prior to buying an animal. One of the key takeaways here is the fact that many influencers buy their desired dog from breeders, rather than looking into shelters or adoption facilities first. While I understand purchasing dogs from breeders when it comes to specific breeds—especially bigger dogs—I have yet to see an influencer look into rescuing a dog from a shelter. 

Another issue that I have with influencers’ dog ownership is that they typically  do not take proper care of them. For example, Rylee Arnold—an influencer and professional dancer—recently brought home a bernedoodle named Maple. However, Arnold is frequently traveling for dance tours and other events such as Coachella. From the way that she vlogs her life on social media, it seems that she is away from home more often than she is there—leaving Maple behind. 

It is deeply concerning how many influencers do not seem to recognize that animals need both time and attention. Dogs need to be outside often, run around, and be given a lot of love from their owners. Dogs need to stop being treated as accessories and instead as an actual time commitment and responsibility. 

The fact that dogs have been yet another thing to be corrupted by influencers does not surprise me. What is saddening about that is the fact that these influencers have the resources to adopt from or give money to shelters. Many of them claim to be invested in animal rights, but do not actually do anything to show their dedication. 

What makes the situation even more disheartening is the fact that influencers do not even know about the dog breed that they are buying. When people choose to buy specific dog breeds, they often fail to do the adequate research required for owning that breed. For example, huskies need a lot of attention and space—something that cannot easily be provided in small apartments. Despite this, so many families and influencers buy them and it is concerning to see how little people care about their animals. 

Another dog breed that should not be considered unless you are prepared to train them is a cane corso. Due to their background as hunting/guard dogs, cane corsos need to be heavily socialized and trained within their first few months. If not, they can become “aggressive” and overly protective of owners, which can cause them to react out of protection. Failing to do your part as an owner and train the dog makes you responsible for any attack that may happen or any instance of negative behavior. 

Beagles are another dog breed that have very specific needs which are often not met. Unfortunately, many beagles are very overweight because their owners did not do the proper research, or they did, but did not actually follow through on meeting their dog’s needs. Beagles need hours of exercise each day and they need to be kept active in order to maintain their mental and physical health. Additionally, beagles need interaction and when not given that, the effects can be disastrous. 

Next time you go to purchase a dog, do your research and remember that dogs are living beings too!