Dogs Are the New Kids—And Vets Are Their Pediatricians

Last night we had a large family dinner and I got chatting with my uncle, who’s been a vet for decades. He’s seen it all—poodles in designer sweaters, cats with trust funds, the occasional parrot with a superiority complex. But lately, he’s noticed something else: more and more people are choosing dogs instead of kids.

It’s not just that people love their pets (which they do, obviously). It’s that pet care has evolved into full-blown parenting. We’re talking organic diets, acupuncture for arthritis, hydrotherapy sessions, and even dog psychologists. My uncle had a client once who asked for a prescription to antidepressants for their malti-poo.

And honestly? I get it. Dogs don’t talk back. They don’t demand an iPad at dinner. You don’t have to save for their schooling. But this level of emotional investment? That’s new. Vet visits now come with the same level of anxiety as a pediatrician’s office. “Is he eating enough?” “Do his paws look normal?” “Could it be anxiety? Maybe I should get him on CBD.”

Pets aren’t just animals anymore. They’re family members, life partners, emotional support systems. And in a world where life feels increasingly unpredictable, maybe that’s why people are doubling down on their dogs. A dog will never ghost you. A dog won’t judge you for wearing the same sweatpants four days in a row. A dog will always be happy when you walk through the door.

So, are dogs the new kids? Maybe. Either way, my uncle isn’t complaining—business is booming.