When you stroll around parks, malls, and other public spaces, you will be shocked with what some Filipino couples are bringing around with them, treated as children. It is not the usual family that you are expecting. They are not bringing their babies nor toddlers — they are bringing their beloved pets.
Recently, the setup of “fur parenting”, wherein couples treat their pets as their child, has become popular in the Philippines. This type of parenting definitely changed the definition of family in today’s time. And as much as we embrace this new kind of parenting, this also poses questions on the influences of shifting to fur parenting.
Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Spokesperson Mylin Quiray said that an increasing number of Filipinos prefer caring for pets instead of raising children, noting that economic stability is the major factor of this decision. Quiray also added that some couples have decided to not raise children at all and stick to fur parenting, while others intend on having children after securing financial stability.
Quiray also emphasized that CPD’s qualitative data reflects how economic considerations are affecting the family planning choices of Filipino couples, citing that couples need an assurance on their economic situation to guarantee that they can provide for a child.
With the rise of fur parenting in the Philippines, the country’s pet-care industry has also grown. Since the pandemic, several pet-friendly establishments have opened, offering places for fur parents to spend quality time with their pets. These spaces also allow couples to treat their pets — from spa treatments and walks to barkday cakes and other pet-friendly enjoyments — further strengthening their bond.
Fur parenting has definitely changed the perspective on family in the Philippines. It opened a new option for couples who wish to experience family life, but choose a child-free lifestyle. At the same time, fur parenting also underscores how Filipinos are becoming mindful of responsible parenthood and family planning.
Photo courtesy of Bonobology
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