FringeHog Friday Five: Humanization of Dogs

We’re kicking off something new on FringeHog called FringeHog Friday Five. The FringeHog Friday Five is a quick dip, (5 links) into a trend or idea we’re watching on our VERGE blog or through FringeHog Tags the World. Our inaugural FringeHog Friday Five is on the Humanization of Dogs/Pets. The links we’ve selected will give you some interesting examples of how we are humanizing our pets.

The humanization of our dogs and other pets has been gaining momentum for years. It is so ingrained in our culture that it takes an over-the-top example like Leona Helmsley leaving $12 million to her dog and nothing to two of her four grandchildren to get our attention. We think nothing of giving our furry friends human names. I stand guilty as charged, having three Pembroke Welsh Corgi rescues named Molly, Niles and Martin. We also assign human responses, traits and characteristics to our dogs. To some, pets are their babies. The humanization trend is peaking. I see hints that we’re moving on from the humanization to the objectification of dogs and pets. Think Paris Hilton and her pup Tinkerbell. Tink was Paris’ number one accessory for a while; used to complete an ensemble or simply embellish Paris’ persona.

With every trend there is a counter-trend and the one I find most interesting is the trend towards treating canines how they need to be treated, which isn’t like humans. Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer has built an empire out of teaching people not to humanize their dogs; and to instead to treat them like the canines they are. He has a devoted following and copycats are springing up. This is a counter-trend to watch.

FringeHog Friday Five: Humanization of Dogs/Pets
Pet Fashion Week took place in New York City on August 18^th and 19^th. Canine and human models hit the runway sporting couture garments designed just for the event. This might sound a bit over the top to some, but when you consider that the Pet Industry is a $40 + billion industry beating both the toy and the candy industries, you realize it should come as no surprise. Pet Fashion Week videos

Neuticles will salvage your neutered dog’s flagging self-esteem. They area patented testicular implant for your neutered dog.

Pet-tainment
A DVD to keep your pets entertained when you’re not around.

Cesar Millan, teaches people to treat dogs like dogs and in doing so you are giving them what they need.

American Pet Products Manufacturer’s Association
Great source for industry statistics and information