Does Your Pet See You As Their Mom?

Pet Care Tips 3 min read

At NHV, we totally think pets are family. We love to include them in our daily activities, and we make sure they’re cared for just like any other family member. But would that make us their parents (or paw-rents)? And does your pet see you as their mom?

While pets can tell the difference between humans and other animals, it does appear that pets form a bond with us that closely resembles motherly love! Here are the facts.

#1 – You Are Your Pet’s Safe Space

Research shows that dogs are similar to human kids in that they treat their owners as a source of safety. This sense of safety allows them to explore and engage with their environment more confidently when you’re around.

Scientists call this sense of security a “secure base.” When a child has a secure base with their caregiver, they’ll engage more with their environment because they trust that you’ll step in to keep them safe.

Likewise, the study found that dogs were more likely to try treats and play with toys when their pet parent was in the room versus a stranger. In fact, many dogs refused to try new things or toys if their pawrent wasn’t around! It just goes to show how important you are to their sense of safety and well-being.

#2 – Pets Ask Permission

It’s no coincidence that your pet goes up to you when they want something. Looking at you with those big puppy-dog eyes is their way of saying, “Please, Mom!” And while we don’t encourage begging, it’s hard to admit it’s not cute. But more than that, pets ask you to go outside, to play, and to fill up their bowl. To make sure your pet feels listened to, always:

Speak with lots of emotion; dogs understand our intention, even if they don’t necessarily understand every word.
Give them a response, even if it’s a “no.” This way, they’ll at least know
Listen to their body language. The way your pet behaves is actually telling you a lot of information about their mood and health!
When appropriate, reward good communication with a wholesome pet treat, such as NHV Nutty Paw-Nanas, our grain-free, artificial ingredients-free peanut butter cookies made by a professional chef with love!

Pets know that you’re a source of important care for them because you’ve built a sense of trust. Basically, they recognize all the effort you put into keeping them happy and healthy, and they know they can count on you.

#3 – Their Brain Gets Happy When They See You

Even your pet’s brain can’t get enough of you. When pets look at their pet parents, their brains release a chemical called “oxytocin.” It’s basically the love chemical!

Oxytocin also happens to be the same chemical that forms between a mother and her babies. So really, when we say fur parent or pet parent, it’s not that far off, at least as far as our brains are concerned!

#4 – They Love The Smell of You

Kind of like how when you visit your childhood home or get a whiff of mom’s cooking, the smell of a pet parent is significant for pets, too.

Research actually shows that a pet parent’s particular smell is deeply linked to a dog’s reward center in the brain. That may be why pets seek you out if they are experiencing anxiety. They know that you’ll be there for them.

#5 – They Know You’ll Take Care of Them When They’re Sick

There’s a reason pets look to you when they’re sick, hurt, or scared. Just like we used to look to our moms!

Paw moms go the extra mile to keep their fur kiddos happy and healthy. They’re the experts, able to tell when their fur kid is limping for real or just for attention. But even paw moms can use a Pet Expert every now and then.

If you need a little extra support, we’re here for you with personalized suggestions for routines for every fur kid, whether they’re dealing with everyday allergies or more serious conditions, like arthritis or cancer. In fact, our range can help with over 150 different pet conditions, and they’re all vet-approved, human-grade, and 100% natural.

Simply use the contact us page, reach out via social media, or schedule a free 15-minute video chat. For more intensive cases, we offer holistic vet consultations with Dr. Amanda, which include an initial meeting, a personalized consultation, and follow-up support.

No matter the need, and no matter the pet, we’re here for all the paw moms – and we love getting to know your fur kiddo, and helping them to feel their best.

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Arthritis and Joint Pain Relief And Rejuvenation Kit

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Anxiety and Stress in Dogs Support Kit

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NHV Pet Experts

We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.