Pet Play (also known as animal play) is a kind of role play where the submissive enters a behavioral or mental state of the animal they are role-playing as and their Dominant (sometimes called Handler), takes on the role of owner or caretaker.
It might seem like a straight forward concept, but pet play is actually an umbrella term for a collection of adaptations or preferences that exist within a niche, but fun, kink.
Here are some basics to get you started…
WHY PLAY AS ANIMALS?
1. OWNERSHIP
It can be an avenue that lets them give complete control to their Owner. Imagine a real-life pet – they are 100% dependent for food, water, shelter, protection etc. as well as being molded to the Owner’s desired behavior. BDSM is full of power exchange, so it’s no surprise that pet play is part of it.
2. CONSENSUAL HUMILIATION
Having the human element stripped from the sub (and all the various activities that come with pet play) can be humiliating and cathartic.
3. DESTRESSING
Letting go of control can be relaxing for some people – not having to worry about the everyday problems and responsibilities adults normally have to. The pets only have to focus on their pet persona and doing as their Owner commands.
4. FETISH
For others, it’s simply something they find sexy or arousing.
IMPORTANT SIDE NOTE: Just like ravishment players don’t actually want to be raped and age players don’t want to have sex with children, pet players don’t want to have sex with animals.
WHAT DO THEY DO?
It entirely depends on the Dominant and the submissive, but the general idea is…
#1 CHOOSING YOUR ANIMAL
This can be either the sub or Dom’s choice. It can be assigned or chosen on instinct (ask anyone if they would rather be a dog or a cat, and everyone will have an answer). You’re also not restricted to ONE animal if you don’t want to be.
Common animals include – puppy/dog, kitten/cat, pony, and pig. These make up a large majority of animals, but there are some that choose other creatures (including mythical ones).
2. COVER YOUR SSSC RULES
The Dom and sub (or just the Dom) decide on rules (under the Safe/Sane/Sober/Consensual commandments), behaviors, punishments, safe words, and length of play – after all the boundaries are in place, play away!
THINGS YOU CAN DO
- Various tricks on command
- Learning to use a litter box or go outside
- Petting or scratching in
- Movement restrictions
- Eating out of pet bowls
- Eating human food that’s made to look like pet food
- Playing with toys
- Sleeping in cages or pet beds
- Keeping off the furniture
- Being led by collar/leash
- Wear butt plugs with animal tails
- Shop for and wear animal accessories or costume pieces
SAFETY CONCERNS
With any BDSM play, there are always dangers you need to be aware of…
1. BONDAGE – Any movement restrictions need to be monitored for proper circulation and no tissue damage. There also need to be a fast way to get out of said bondage if any problems pop up.
2. CAGING – Similar to bondage, it might be dangerous to leave a “pet” in a small cage for too long since it doesn’t allow them to move (and maintain proper blood flow). If you want them to sleep in an enclosure, make sure there’s plenty of room.
3. FOOD – Human food is not pet food and pet food is not human food. Never make people eat puppy kibble. There are plenty of ways to fake canned dog chow or kitten treats with normal food (and proper nutritional values) – even if you’re vegan or vegetarian.
4. OUTSIDE PLAY – Maybe you want your puppy to take a walk. Perhaps you want your pony to pull a cart. No matter what, always remember that human tissue isn’t as strong as hooves or paws (even real dogs need sweaters in cold weather). Make sure you’re aware of the temperature and that they are wearing the proper protection on their knees, hands etc.
5. PUBLIC PLAY – “Public play” isn’t actually PUBLIC play. You never go to a place where non-consensual and young eyes could see what you’re doing. Public simply means you’re going to a place where other kinksters are playing (like BDSM parties, kink festivals, private parties etc.)
6. NON-VERBAL PET – If you want your pet to be completely non-verbal with human-speak, you STILL need a clear SAFE WORD if there is emotional or physical problems. OR, you can allow the one verbal exception to be the safe word.
Want more interesting articles? Check out these…
- What is Furry? Understanding These Adorable Fuzzy Fans
- 10 Tail Plugs – Guide to Furry and Fabulous Anal Accessories
- 101 Kinky Things – An Extensive List of Kinks and Fetishes
How about you, dear readers? What are your experiences or pleasures with pet play? Share in the comments!