Dogs Are Children, and Plants Are Pets

I never thought I’d name my plants, but here we are. Naming them has given each one a distinct personality, making their unique characteristics stand out more. There was Bernie, a delicate Maidenhair fern who traveled to Arnold with us because she needed daily care. I did not have a plant sitter. There is Sasquatchie (Sasquatch), a Northfork Pine who thrives in indirect sunlight, and Lily, a resilient Peace Lily Plant who can be picky. Lily, for instance, is quite particular about her watering schedule, and if I miss a day, she lets me know by drooping her leaves. I check on them each morning, water them as needed, and rotate them to ensure they get enough light. Sometimes, I talk to them (yes, I’m that person).

I worry about my plants’ well-being as with Teddy, Bear, and Summer. Did I overwater Lily? Did Bernie have the proper humidity levels? These daily rituals aren’t a burden but a source of joy. Watching my plants grow and thrive gives me a sense of accomplishment that’s surprisingly similar to the feeling I get seeing my dogs happy and healthy. There are challenges, of course, like when Teddy had a health scare or when I struggled to find the right spot for a plant to get enough sunlight. But overcoming these challenges and seeing my doggie kids and plants thrive is incredibly rewarding. It’s a feeling of pride and satisfaction that I’m sure many of you can relate to in your own experiences with your pets and plants.  

Parallels in Care—Dogs and Plants  

At first, I didn’t realize how much overlap there is between how I care for my dogs and how I care for my plants. Both require attention, thoughtfulness, and consistency.  

It’s about finding the perfect balance of mental stimulation, physical activity, and affection for my dogs. For my plants, it’s about understanding their environment, watering schedules, and growth needs. I think about what makes them thrive and adjust my care routines to ensure they’re happy and healthy—whether giving the dogs extra playtime to burn off their energy or repotting a plant that’s outgrown its pot.

Just like my dogs rely on me to create a safe and stimulating space, my plants depend on me to provide an environment where they can flourish, and that responsibility has become surprisingly rewarding.  

A Shift in Perspective—Redefining Family  

Nurturing my dogs and plants has transformed my perspective on family and home. I’ve come to understand that human connections don’t strictly define family—it’s about meaningful relationships and the love that ties us together. I am Mom to Teddy and Bear and Grandma to Summer. Their trust and affection speak volumes. Similarly, the quiet companionship of my plants has added a layer of comfort and beauty to my home that I never knew I needed.  

It’s funny—when I was younger, I used to think about family in very traditional terms. But now, looking at my life, I see that family can take many forms. It’s in how my dogs greet me at the door like I’ve been gone for years (even a few minutes). It’s in how my plants brighten my home and remind me daily that growth takes time and care.  

Fulfillment Through Nurturing  

Nurturing, whether a wagging dog or a leafy pothos, has brought me immense fulfillment. It’s not just about the physical care but the emotional connection that comes with it. My dogs and plants have been my teachers, imparting lessons in patience, responsibility, and the beauty of creating an environment where living things can thrive. They’ve also provided comfort and joy, especially during challenging times. These lessons have enlightened me and made me more reflective, deepening my understanding of life and the importance of nurturing. This narrative celebrates the joy and fulfillment that comes from nurturing. It resonates with you, bringing to mind your emotional connections with your animal kids and pet plants.  

I’d love to hear your stories about whether you’re talking to your plants or feeling like your pets are your children. There’s a unique community in knowing others share the same deep bond with their dogs, plants, or whatever fills their hearts with joy. Your experiences are valuable and can contribute to our shared understanding of the unique relationships we form with our pets and plants. This sense of community and shared experiences make us feel connected and understood in our journey of nurturing and caring for our beloved companions, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. So, please share your stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear from you.

For me, home isn’t just a place. It’s the wag of Teddy’s tail, the spring of Bear’s steps, Summer’s happy bark, and Lily’s fresh green growth. Together, they’ve turned my house into something precious—a little ecosystem of love, growth, and belonging. I hope this story of my unique family, comprising dogs, plants, and, yes, human family members, brings a sense of warmth and comfort to your own home. May you find the same sense of belonging and comfort in your unique family dynamic, and may it reassure you that you are not alone in the joy and challenges of nurturing your pets and plants.