Animal journal wants to change pet terminology

     If your cat or dog is already head of the house, we’ve got some bad news for you. Your furry friend isn’t a pet and you’re no longer his owner.

    At least, that’s the idea behind a move from the Journal of Animal Ethics.

     

    As a way to improve treatment of animals, editors of the journal suggest changing the related terminology, the Associated Press reports.

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    So Fido is now your “animal companion,” no matter how many often he hogs the blankets at night. And you? You’re not an owner, you’re an “animal caregiver.” While you’re at it, stop using phrases like “eating like a pig.”

    Animal welfare experts say this is a great start, but there’s much more standing in the way of better treatment of animals. The legal system, for one, which recognizes animals as property.

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