Online Discussion Sparks Debate On Whether It's Cruel To Have Pets While Living Alone
A 28-year-old Quora user, Lisa, sparked a debate that got way more heated than anyone expected, just by talking about what “reasonable” looks like when you live alone with pets.
She said it doesn’t feel cruel to leave pets for stretches of time, but she also revealed the details that made people side-eye her setup. Back when she had a dog in her apartment, she walked him at least four times a day. Then she moved into a house, and her dog went to live with her dad. After that, Lisa always had more than one dog, and she calls her current crew “tireless trio,” even though each pup acts like it’s the only one in the house.
That’s where the argument really split: some people heard companionship, while others heard “too many hours alone.”
Lisa's "tireless trio."
Lisa pointed out that she doesn't generally think that it's cruel for pets to be left alone for reasonable periods.
However, she did mention that when she had a dog while living in an apartment, she walked him at least four times each day.
When she moved into a house, her dog moved in with her dad.
Since then, she has always had more than one dog at a time.
The single dog was her emotional support while recovering from a severe illness.
She says that when there is more than one, they do an excellent job of keeping each other company.
This debate echoes the curious online user asking if dogs need a canine companion.
Currently, Lisa's "tireless trio" of pups each like to think of themselves as the only dog in the house.
Some other Quora users shared their own experiences, and you can take a look at some of them below.
"Absolutely not!"
Absolutely not! Many individuals who live alone appreciate the companionship that pets provide when they return home. According to Dr. John Gray, relationship author, "Pets can offer unconditional love and companionship, which can be especially comforting for those living alone."
Most dogs will rest while their “person” is at work. If they’re older and not destructive, consider leaving an enrichment toy (like a stuffed Kong) to keep them engaged. Dr. Michele Weiner-Davis, a marriage therapist, notes that "having a pet can significantly enhance one's emotional well-being, providing joy and a sense of purpose."
This is also beneficial for dogs that need to be crated when left alone. It’s delightful to have an animal greet you when you arrive home from work. A cat may be a more suitable pet for someone who travels frequently, as they are more self-sufficient and can entertain themselves while using a litter box, though they still need to be fed.
I lived alone for many years and had up to three dogs while I worked. It was incredibly comforting to know I had “someone” to come home to! Dr. Shawn Achor, a positive psychology researcher, states, "Dogs live in the moment and don’t count the minutes until you come home, making them perfect companions for those who may feel lonely."
"If they have other animals, then they aren't alone."
No, dogs and cats typically sleep between 12 to 16 hours a day, while humans average around 8 hours. According to Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, "Pets can provide companionship and emotional support, which is especially beneficial for individuals living alone." Dr. Susan David emphasizes that as long as pets are well-trained and their owners are consistent, they can thrive in a home environment. Additionally, having other pets can alleviate feelings of loneliness. "Having a pet can significantly enhance one's mental health, providing a loving home for the animal in return," she adds. It's also advisable to arrange for neighbors or family to check in, or consider services like dog walkers or daycare. However, Dr. Barry Schwartz, a choice researcher, warns, "The key is responsible pet ownership; neglecting an animal's needs, regardless of time spent at home, is detrimental." Dr. Barry Schwartz
"Go for it!"
Consider this perspective: is it truly “cruel” to provide a safe home and loving companionship for most of the day, even if the pet is alone for several hours, especially when they have toys, a comfortable bed, and the peace needed for a good nap?
As Dr. Susan David, an emotional agility expert, states, "Pets can provide companionship and emotional support, which can be incredibly beneficial for individuals living alone." Furthermore, being in a loving home is far preferable to the alternative of a lonely kennel or worse. As long as someone is financially capable and genuinely desires a pet, they should embrace the opportunity to care for one.
Lisa’s “tireless trio” claim hits, because those pups aren’t just background characters, they’re the whole reason her story even works.
Then the conversation pivots to her old apartment routine, with the four-times-a-day walks that make the “reasonable” part sound very specific.
After that, the debate turns into a tug-of-war between her single-dog recovery era and the way she says the dogs keep each other company now.
And when someone jumps in with “Absolutely not!” it clashes right against the image of a dog waiting at home, including the part where the pups each think they’re the main event.
What are your thoughts on this question? Do you think pets should only be kept if their owner can be with them all the time, or do you think it's reasonable for them to be left alone sometimes?
Surely, as long as our pets are well taken care of and provided for, it isn't cruel to leave them alone at times. As long as they're not alone all the time, of course.
We would love to hear your opinions on this. You can share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
Either way, Lisa’s dogs are not just pets, they’re the proof that living alone can look wildly different depending on the routine.
For more “I need help” dog-school logistics, check out the online community’s exact tips for managing a dog while attending school.
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