I’m as guilty as anyone as spoiling a pet.

The evidence? Well, first of all, there’s that rule thing. Every one we initially established (no bed, no couch, no human food) was quickly abandoned. Also, I talk to her. When she’s not around, I talk about her. Probably 90% of the pictures I take are of her. And my social life pretty much revolves around her too: Beagle meet-ups, swimming expeditions, etc.

I haven’t resorted to clothing her yet, but who knows, that may be coming. Although Andy and I initially chuckled at these life-jacket wearing doggers, I soon got to thinking, “If she’s ever comes swimming with us in Benin, maybe that’s not such a bad idea…”

And speaking of dogs going on boats…

So, yes, many of us spoil our furry friends, but I wonder: how much is this an American phenomena?

When researching potential posts, I remember reading with shock that dogs are so despised in certain parts of the world that you can’t walk them in public without being showered with sticks and rocks. (I think it was Malaysia, but my memory could be failing me.)

I’d love to hear about your experiences with pets overseas — both local views about pet ownership and treatment of the pets we bring.