Pet Pampering Gone Crazy!

We all love our pets--or we wouldn’t have ‘em. I’m all for spoiling dogs and cats, within reason--and when it doesn’t cause other problems. Serendipity-kitty gets her share of lap snuggles, on demand. She could care less about commercial toys, but also enjoys treats from my plate, especially ice cream. And I found a deep blue leash that matches her stunning eyes for the ultimate in fashionable pampering. My d*g Magic gets a bit of people food now and then. He’s even allowed on the sofa upon occasion, and receives far too many doggy toys to count, despite disemboweling the squeakers in record time. There’s reason behind some pet products. I have no problem with folks dressing up collars and leashes with colorful patterns. Some pets actually benefit from wearing sweaters to keep them warm in frigid temperatures, or protected from sunburn pain. Special treats that don’t upset the digestion or proper nutrition can help with bonding and training. Heated pet beds ease arthritis, and water fountains encourage kitties to drink and reduce problems with urinary concerns. Heck, even painting Kitty’s toenails is a harmless indulgence, and those colorful nail covers like SoftPaws actually prevent clawing and digging. That’s pampering with a purpose. However, pampering can go too far! I recently got a promotion for a “puppy purse of the month” club. I’m not making this up. It’s designed for the smaller “portable” size pets, including cats. You strap the pet into the little sack so his feet dangle through the holes. He has a handle attached on his back, or a longer strap, and the owner can then carry the pet over his/her shoulder like a living, breathing briefcase and the pet’s fuzzy feet never touch the ground. The product line comes in all sorts of fabric and patterns. Just shoot me. There is so much wrong with this, I don’t know where to begin. You can do an Internet search if you really want to see more, but I’m not promoting the company beyond this mention. I’m appalled. Certainly pets may enjoy going places with you. There are benefits to keeping the small pets safe and out from under our feet (or within bite-range of larger d*gs). But pets are living, breathing, thinking creatures. You don’t turn them into luggage! I can only imagine the nasty comments my cat Seren might make if presented with one of these outfits. Give ‘em toys, for sure. Lavish attention, absolutely. Dress yourself up and accessorize with jewelry et al. But when pampering transforms our pets into mere fashion statements, I gotta draw a line in the kitty litter. Give me a break!