On the heels of Mother's Day, I wanted to share some new information regarding how multiple humans view their canine' kids'. A recent study conducted by Kelton Research reveals that 8 in 10 Pet Parents surveyed consider their dogs to be equal members of the family.
1 58 percent of American dog 'owners' surveyed are comfortable calling themselves nicknames such as “Mommy” and “Daddy” when referencing their dogs.
2 35 percent of pet parents surveyed even refer to their dog as “son” or “daughter.”
3 In fact 10 percent of those surveyed have celebrated Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with their dog,
4 Two out of three pet parents surveyed admitted they use two, if not more, nicknames for their pups, like they would for their own human children.
5 On average, dog 'owners' surveyed have about seven photos of their dogs displayed in their homes or offices.
6 74 percent of pet parents surveyed said they like to share one meal with their dogs each day,
7 81 percent of dog parents surveyed have celebrated their pets birthday at least once, and 77 percent have admitted to buying their dog a present for their special day.
8 71 percent of those surveyed admittied that they have at least one picture on them at all times that they show off to others.
9 Of those surveyed, nearly 72 percent of dog 'owners' with children apply the same disciplinary standards to their pooches as they do with their kids.
10 According to the survey, nearly 60 percent of Americans believe they appreciate their pups more now more than their childhood dogs.
11 79 percent of those surveyed say they talk about their dog more than politics and 48 percent that chit chat about their dog more than their job...
12 ...And 55 percent of those surveyed discuss topics including their dog more than their human friends...
13 Nearly a quarter of pet parents surveyed (23 percent) have a photo album dedicated to just pictures of their canines, and 16 percent have started scrapbooks for their dogs.
Given that social justice issues are subtly reflected in language, the finding that the majority of study participants (54%) consider themselves to be “pet parents” instead of “pet owners,” is a mark of progress for our 4-legged friends. While non-human animals are still classified as property under the law, this shift in terminology is a promising trend in companion animal welfare.
I suspect I am not alone when I say that I am pleased to see the majority views catch up to those that many of us we Daily Waggers have held for years! 
In kinship,
Dr. Pia Salk
From: Kirby Bear | 5/12/11 at 8:33 am
Hello ladies, Kirby here.
And hello to you too Dr. Pia. As a pet who is part of a family, I already knew about some of the things you talked about. I left my mother and father when just a pup and started living with my Mommy and Daddy. I haven’t looked back one time and wished things were different. I wonder how many children are as loyal as I am? I’m here 42-7 and Mommy and Daddy never hear from their own two “human” children. Why do they still call themselves “human” with that kind of thinking? Hay, it’s time for breakfast which I have with Mommy and Daddy. We often take naps at the same time in the afternoon. How about that?
Catch you later, Kirby.
From: Basil | 5/12/11 at 9:07 am
Hello Ladies & Dr. Pia,
Glad to hear that many others are now viewing the family "pet" as family. It should never have been otherwise. When I hear of animals being tied up and left out to the elements I have to hide my head in shame of those humans.Hope your Mother's Day was the best Dr. Pia.
Love & licks,
Basil
From: delia | 5/12/11 at 9:44 am
It's the only way I would want it, Kitty is the love of my fur-kingdom...she is part of our family and I am her fur-baby mommie....
Adorable photos, you can see the love.
From: DDR & animallover jan | 5/12/11 at 10:33 am
Hi Dr. Pia, Thanks again for a delightful blog post! I certainly agree with what your survey says! My sweet little Dudley Do Right is my 'baby boy' and I call him that all the time. I also call him 'Dudders or Dude' and he responds very well. I would be so happy to see even more people who consider their dogs wonderful family members as our friends here at The Daily Wag do every day. I love it when people have positive attitudes about animals. Have a great day everyone! Jan
From: Rebel | 5/12/11 at 12:14 pm
Dear Dr. Pia,
I have a Mimi and a Papa. They are my new parents after my Popi passed away. I am at work with Mimi right now. I don't know if I have a scrapbook or not, but I am very happy especially when Eli, Bekah and Aubrey come for the weekend. They are Mimi & Papa's grandchildren. Does that mean they're by Grandchildren, too?
Your friend,
Rebel (Hi to Basil & Kirby)
From: Tessa | 5/12/11 at 1:28 pm
Hi Dr Pia, it sure is nice that you hoomans is finally figuring out that we really do belong!
woo woos, Tessa
From: Alex | 5/12/11 at 4:22 pm
Tessa says it best!