Language Matters: Why World Animal Protection Uses “Companion Animals” Over “Pets”

Language is one of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal in shaping perceptions and inspiring others to take action, especially when it comes to how we speak about animals. At World Animal Protection, we’re intentional about the words we use because they reflect our values and commitment to ending animal suffering. One of the most noticeable shifts we’ve made is choosing to use the term “companion animals” instead of “pets” in our communications, both online and in print.

This decision isn’t about abandoning the term “pets” entirely—as we still use it when reminding others that wild animals like snakes, chinchillas, and birds are not “pets” and don’t belong in your homes—it’s about promoting a perspective that aligns with our mission to respect and protect animals. This subtle change in terminology makes a significant difference in how we view and treat animals.

The History of the Word “Pets”

The term “pets” has long been associated with ownership. Historically, animals categorized as “pets” are often seen as property, valued primarily for the benefits they bring to humans, such as companionship, security, or status. This perspective persists in many legal frameworks today, where animals are still considered personal property or “things.”

Although many people use “pets” affectionately, the term can unintentionally reinforce a hierarchy where animals exist to serve us, overlooking the sentience and individuality of animals and reducing them to roles that prioritize human needs and desires.

Shifting to “Companion Animals”

At World Animal Protection, we believe that all animals deserve to be seen and valued for who they are—not solely what they can provide for us—which is why we encourage the use of “companion animals” over “pets.” “Companion animals” highlights the deep emotional connection between humans and animals while promoting respect and equality. Companionship also stresses a deeper, mutual emotional relationship as opposed to the one-sided nature of ownership.

Here are some key reasons why this shift matters:

1. Acknowledging Sentience

Animals commonly referred to as “pets,” like dogs, cats, and rabbits, are sentient beings capable of experiencing joy, fear, and pain. Using “companion animals” emphasizes their emotional lives and helps foster greater empathy and compassion.

2. Challenging Ownership Mindsets

The term “pets” can unintentionally reinforce the idea of animals as property. By contrast, “companion animals” encourages a view of animals as friends and family members, not objects to be owned.

3. Encouraging Ethical Treatment

When we frame animals as companions instead of “pets,” it emphasizes the responsibility we have to meet their needs, respect their autonomy, and ensure their well-being.

4. Promoting a Balanced Relationship

The term “companion animals” underscores the mutual relationship between humans and animals, where both parties benefit from care, love, and companionship.

“Pets” vs. “Companion Animals”: The Advocacy Angle

When advocating for animals, language plays a critical role in shaping public perception and how animals are treated. While “pets” is a widely recognized term, it often fails to capture the depth of the human-animal bond or the responsibilities involved in caring for these animals.

For example, adopting a companion animal is more than “acquiring a pet”—it’s a lifelong commitment to providing love, care, and a safe environment. By using inclusive language, we challenge the notion of animals as commodities and instead promote adoption and responsible guardianship.

Practical Benefits of Using “Companion Animals”

The transition from “pets” to “companion animals” isn’t just about ethics—it also offers practical advantages for advocacy and education:

1. Engaging a Broader Audience

Using “companion animals” helps engage people who see animals as family members rather than as pets they “own.” It reflects a shared commitment to respecting the unique roles animals play in our lives.

2. Strengthening Animal Protection Campaigns

Words matter when it comes to inspiring action and making change for animals. Referring to animals as companions fosters emotional connections, making campaigns to protect their rights as individuals more impactful.

3. Advocating for Policy Change

Many legal systems still classify “pets” as property. Using terms like “companion animals” encourages policymakers to rethink these frameworks and prioritize animal rights.

Reframing the Relationship with “Pets”

If you share your life with a dog, cat, or any other animal often referred to as a “pet,” consider the relationship you have with them. Are they beloved companions who bring joy, comfort, and unconditional love into your life?

At World Animal Protection, we believe reframing the way we talk about animals is a small step toward a more compassionate world. Recognizing the animals we share our homes with as companions elevates the way we think about their needs and their intrinsic value as sentient beings. It helps reinforce why no animal deserves to be treated like a product. Intensive breeding in animal mills to supply pet stores is an enormous source of animal suffering in the US.

How You Can Help

If you’re inspired by this shift in language, here’s how you can make a difference:

1. Use Compassionate Language

Replace “pets” with “companion animals” when you talk about the animals with whom you currently share your homes and lives. Small changes in language can spark larger conversations about animal protection.

2. Educate Others

Many people use “pets” without considering its implications. Share why you’ve made the switch to “companion animals” and encourage others to reflect on the language they use.

3. Support Ethical Organizations

Organizations like World Animal Protection are working to shift perceptions and policies around all animals, including companion animals. Supporting these groups amplifies their message and impact.

4. Advocate for Animal Rights

Whether it’s speaking out against animal mills or pushing for legislation that recognizes animals as sentient beings rather than property, your voice can help create meaningful change.

5. Support Adoption and Ending Animal Sales

Learn more about why selling any animals as “pets” in stores like Petco and PetSmart is exploitative and how you can help bring an end to this system. Commit to never purchasing an animal from a pet store and reach out to your local shelters and rescues for information about any animals in your community who are in need of companionship.

Companion Animals Are Family, Not Property

At its core, the debate between “pets” and “companion animals” isn’t about replacing one term with another—it’s about recognizing the evolving way we see and treat animals. For many of us, companion animals are not animals we own—they’re family members, confidants, and best friends who we are privileged to care for.

By choosing language that reflects this bond, we can foster a culture where all animals, whether they’re companion animals, farmed animals, or wild animals, are treated with the respect and care they deserve.

World Animal Protection is dedicated to creating a world where animals are free from suffering and cruelty. Our choice to use “companion animals” instead of “pets” is just one of the many ways we’re working toward that goal.

Together, we can build a future where all animals are valued for who they are—not just the roles they play in our lives.