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What do you call a person who loves animals more than humans? In a world brimming with diverse passions, there exists a unique group of individuals whose affinity for animals surpasses their love for their fellow humans.
They strongly connect with the animal kingdom, fostering deep admiration and empathy towards animals.
Such people will cry when their pet dies, get angry when they hear a story about a dog that dies in a hot car, and scroll by the story of a teen that died in a car crash.
You’ve perhaps met such people. Maybe it’s a friend who volunteers at the local animal shelter every weekend or a family member who can’t resist petting every dog they see on the street.
But what do you call a person who loves animals more than humans?
A person who loves animals more than humans is often called a pet lover, animal friend, pet person, or zoophilist.
Although there isn’t a single term that precisely captures this preference for animals over humans, these descriptions effectively convey these individuals’ profound affection for the animal kingdom.
Why Do Some People Love Animals More Than Humans?
There are countless reasons why some people may love animals more than humans. It can be due to personal inclination, experiences, or the unique bonds formed with animals throughout their lives. Here are the top 10 common motivations:
- Animals give us unconditional love. They don’t care about our flaws or mistakes; they love us just as we are.
Whether a dog wagging its tail or a cat purring on our lap, their affection for us is pure and genuine. This kind of love and devotion is hard in human relationships.
2. They are very appreciative. Animals have a keen appreciation for even the smallest acts of kindness.
Be it a treat, a gentle touch, or spending time together, they often display gratitude and respond with affection and happiness. These small gestures can go a long way in making you feel loved and appreciated.
3. Animals don’t judge you. They don’t care about our social status, wealth, or appearance. They accept us for who we are. This lack of judgment can be incredibly freeing and help us feel more comfortable in our skin.
4. Innocence and Simplicity. Something about the innocence and simplicity of animals draws us in. They have a purity and naivety that is refreshing in today’s complex and often cynical world. Watching a puppy play or a kitten chase a toy can bring nothing but joy.
5. Unlike humans, animals aren’t always asking for something. They don’t have hidden agendas or ulterior motives.
They are content with simple pleasures like food, shelter, and love. And this can be attractive to individuals who find relief in relationships without constant requests or obligations.
6. They protect us. Animals have an innate instinct to protect their human companions. Take a good example of dogs living alongside humans providing protection and companionship.
The protective nature of animals can create a deep sense of trust and reliance, leading to a preference for their company over humans.
7. Animals are gentle. Many folks like the gentle nature of animals. From a kitten’s soft purr to a rabbit’s warm snuggles, animals have a calming presence that can make even the most stressful day disappear.
Animals often exhibit kindness, tenderness, and a lack of malice, which appeals to individuals seeking peace and harmony.
8. They are loyal. Loyalty is something many people cherish and look for in relationships. Animals, particularly pets, are known for their unwavering loyalty.
Dogs, for example, are famously known as man’s best friend due to their steadfast devotion. This loyalty can foster a deep bond and a sense of emotional connection, leading some individuals to prioritize their relationships with animals over humans.
9. Animals can calm us down. The presence of animals has a calming effect on human beings. Interacting with animals, petting them, or simply being in their company can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
10. Lack of Expectations. Human relationships often come with a set of expectations and complexities. In contrast, relationships with animals are often more straightforward.
This lack of expectations can appeal to some people, making their relationships with animals more fulfilling and less burdensome than human interactions.
Understanding the Depth of Animal Affection
Animals have been known to display a wide range of emotions, including affection towards humans and other animals.
However, understanding the depth of animal affection can be difficult, as it is often expressed subtly and requires close observation and interpretation.
For example, a dog wagging its tail can indicate excitement or happiness but can also be a sign of nervousness or fear.
Similarly, a cat purring may indicate contentment but can also be a way of self-soothing in stressful situations.
Despite the challenges of interpreting animal behavior, evidence suggests that many animals experience profound feelings of affection.
Dogs, for example, have been shown to release oxytocin (the “love hormone”) when interacting with their owners, the same hormone humans release during moments of social bonding and love.
Similarly, studies have shown that many primates engage in grooming behaviors to reinforce social bonds and display affection.
To understand the depth of animal affection, you must pay close attention to your animal’s body language and behavior.
This can help develop a deeper appreciation for the complex emotional lives of our animal companions.
How Can You Show Your Animal Love?
As a pet owner, showing love and affection to your furry friend is essential to your responsibility. There are several ways you can express your affection to your pet. Spending quality time with them is one of the best ways to show that you care.
Taking them out for walks, playing with them, or just spending time cuddling can help strengthen your bond with them.
Another way to show love to your pet is by providing them with a comfortable and secure environment.
This includes giving them a cozy bed, providing the right food and water, and keeping them safe from harm. You can also pamper your pet by giving them occasional treats or toys they enjoy playing with.
Regular grooming is also another way to show love to your pet. Brushing their fur, trimming their nails, and cleaning their ears can help keep them healthy and happy.
Moreover, regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations can help keep your pet in good health.
People Who Fear Animals
As an animal lover, it’s hard to imagine anyone not feeling the same way. But did you know there’s a term for someone who hates animals? That’s right; zoophobia is the term used to refer to them.
People with zoophobia experience extreme anxiety and panic when near animals, even if the animals are harmless or pose no threat. Common triggers include dogs, cats, insects, birds, or any animal.
However, there are treatment options for zoophobia, including therapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy. To help individuals overcome their fears and regain control over their lives.
How Deal With The Loss Of A Pet
The loss of a pet can be a devastating experience for many people, especially for pet lovers. Pets are often considered family members; their absence can leave a void in one’s life.
It is important to take time to grieve the loss of a pet and acknowledge the emotions that come with it. This process can be difficult, but some steps can be taken to help cope with the loss.
One way to deal with the loss of a pet is to find support from others who have gone through a similar experience.
Many online communities and support groups are dedicated to helping people cope with the loss of a pet.
These groups can provide a safe space to share their feelings and receive support from others who understand what they are going through. You can also create a memorial or tribute in honor of the pet.
This can be as simple as creating a scrapbook or photo album or as elaborate as planting a tree or donating the pet’s name to an animal charity.
This can provide some closure and help keep the pet’s memories alive. Remember to give yourself time to heal and process the loss.
Everyone grieves differently, so there is no set timeline for how long it may take to feel better. Be patient with oneself and allow for the necessary time and space to grieve.
Conclusion
What do you call a person who loves animals more than humans? There is no denying that animals have a special place in our hearts. This bond is even stronger for some people than the one they share with other humans.
While some might question or misunderstand this preference, it is important to respect and appreciate the diverse ways in which individuals form bonds and find solace in their relationships with animals.
