Why Some Millennials Are Choosing Pets Over Having Children

Did you guys know that over half of all American households have a dog? While pet numbers have risen, according to the CDC, human birth rates have declined. Whoa! Millennials may decide that pets are better for their household than babies. Why is that?

After surveying this subject matter, Lily Velez, Head of Digital PR at Veterinarians.org, discovered that over half of the survey participants (70%) considered their pet their child. Here are a few reasons why fur babies may be the predominant pick. 

  1. Pets can be left alone. Of course, they need attention and care, but animals don’t require the full-time presence of a caregiver. For those who are heavily career-driven, travel for work, have a consistent social calendar or have a busy schedule, a pet would be the better choice. 

  2. Petcare is easier to find and less expensive. Ask any parent with a young child what one of the most significant expenses has been for them, and it’s safe to say that one of the leading responses will be child care. Not only is it pricey, but it can also be challenging to find, depending on the situation. 

  3. Emotional support – raising children is fulfilling and provides an overwhelming sense of love. However, children don’t provide the emotional support some individuals need. As parents, the responsibility to support emotionally falls on them. Depending on the state of life you are in, you may not feel up for that task or may need some additional support for yourself. AND THAT’S OK!! 

  4. There are fewer life adjustments needed to accommodate a pet. There may be some changes, Whether professionally, romantically, or socially, but uprooting in these areas is minimal. 

Studies have shown that in some parts of Austin, the number of homes with dogs outnumber homes with children by an almost 2 to 1 ratio. 

Your lifestyle needs will always play a role in making major life decisions. Expanding your family in animal or human form will always require adjustments and careful consideration. There is no wrong choice; being a parent in any form will always add extra love and joy into your life, which is what matters! If you’re planning to add a fur baby to your family, This Lil Dog of Mine would be happy to assist you with care when needed. We provide several services, including daily dog walking, to make your transition easier. 




Tina Clark