What does your pet say about you? Do you see yourself as a ‘cat person’, and what does that mean? Like friends or members of family, pets help us through periods of grief, stress and above all, add to our joy and mental well-being. We choose to surround ourselves with people who share our interests, and animals are no different. We form bonds with pets not only based on their cuteness but also from a common understanding and acceptance of their quirks, personalities and needs. PETport Owner and Founder Hazel Imrie, tells us what your choice in pet says about your personality.
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The Dog Person
“Who doesn’t love going home to a pooch’s elated expression? It’s the face of pure love and loyalty,” says Imrie.
“Just like dogs, you’re energetic and extroverted, which makes you tons of fun to be around. This care-free attitude helps you focus on the things that matter most: food, play and family. Companionship is also very important to you, and so is loyalty,” she says.
“Regardless of the situation, I find that dog people look for the good in people, even if it takes some digging.”
A study conducted by the University of Texas found that those who refer to themselves as ‘dog people’ tend to be extroverted, agreeable, outdoorsy, and conscientious. Considering that most dogs require regular exercise, this makes complete sense. In most instances, a dog forces you to get out of the house. So people with dogs as pets are probably more likely to be interested in running, cycling, hiking, or surfing. Of course, not all dogs are the same and not all dog owners will have the same interests. Lap dog, anyone?
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The Cat Person
“Cats really are little lions by nature: fiercely independent, resourceful and opportunistic. As such, cat owners are determined and motivated. Having a go-getter attitude will aid you tremendously in your professional career, especially because of your dependable nature,” says Imrie.
“Like lions, you take great pride in who you are and will fight for those you love. Stay strong, keep your eyes on the prize, and you’ll be able to accomplish whatever you set your mind to.”
What does your choice in pet say about your personality if you prefer feline friendship? Unlike dogs, cats don’t travel in packs and seem to complement humans who are more introverted. This is according to research from the United Kingdom’s Bristol University, which also found that people with a college degree or higher were more likely to own cats than dogs.
“It could have something to do with work hours,” says Jane Murray, the study’s lead author and lecturer. “If you’re well educated, you could be working longer hours or have a longer commute to work. This will make it more difficult to own a dog as it requires more attention and exercise. But this is all speculation at best.”
In South Africa, it’s often easier for young people to own a cat because they either don’t have the space for a dog, are renting property, or are busy building their careers.
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The Bird Lover
“Birds soothe the soul with the most beautiful melodies. With their vocal personalities, bird owners are socially outgoing and expressive. You’re a person that sees the ‘bigger picture’ and continues to remain optimistic even in tough times. Hard work isn’t something new to you, and you approach life with great care and vigilance. Much like teaching young birds to take the leap from the nest, your ambition is inspiring, whilst your willingness to learn will take you to incredible heights,” says Imrie.
Sam Gosling, a psychologist at the University of Texas believes that a pet is an expression of identity and a mood regulator. “If we want quiet companionship we might buy a cat, and if we want a pet to go on adventures with, we might buy a dog,” he said. “Maybe your choice in pet says more about where you are at a certain point in your life.”
Luckily there’s a furry friend for each of us, no matter our personality, and a guaranteed companion for life.
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Compiled by Food and Decor Editor, Claire Badenhorst
