Becoming a fur aunt is a delightful and rewarding experience. Whether it’s a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or any other beloved pet, being a fur aunt allows you to share in the joys and responsibilities of pet care without being the primary caregiver. Here’s how I embrace and enjoy my role as a fur aunt.
Meeting the Fur Baby
When I first met my fur nephews, it was truly love at first sight. The excitement of welcoming these new furry family members into my life was overwhelming. I wanted to ensure they felt safe and comfortable, so I gave them plenty of time to adjust, allowing them to sniff, explore, and get to know me at their own pace. Building a bond with my fur nephews was an incredibly rewarding experience, and watching their trust grow made every moment worthwhile. Whether you’re meeting a new pet for the first time or bonding with a beloved family pet, patience and understanding are key to creating a lasting connection.
My brother had entrusted me with the care of his two dogs, Neji and Yuno when he had to move away for work. Since then, I’d always been a proud fur aunt. I have been their primary caregiver, responsible for their well-being and happiness. I take that job very seriously.
Building a Bond with the Fur Babies
I just came home. As I walked through the front door, the familiar sounds of my fur babies greeted me—a chorus of excited barks and the tails banging on the side of the cabinet by the door. They could not wait for me to open the door.
Yuno, the Belgian Malinois/Doberman mix, is a giant that bounced around me, his tail wagging like a metronome set to a joyful rhythm. Neji, the anxious Aspin, joined in, his nose twitching in excitement as he snuggled against my leg.
To build a strong bond with my fur niece or nephew, I spend quality time with them almost all day. This includes playing with their favorite toys, going for walks, or simply cuddling on the couch, mostly it’s the cuddling-on-the-couch. Consistent, positive interactions help strengthen our connection.
Fur Aunt’s Scheduled Pet-Sitting and Visits
Before I took over the responsibility of taking over their total care, one of the joys of being a fur aunt is offering to pet-sit when their owners are away. I take this responsibility seriously, ensuring that their routine remains as normal as possible. I stick to their feeding schedule, maintain their exercise routine, and give them lots of love and attention.
Spoiling the Fur Babies (Responsibly)
I love spoiling my fur niece or nephew with treats and toys. I do check with their owners first to ensure any new items or treats are safe and appropriate for them. Since they were little, they have been with me, so I am familiar with what they are allowed to do, what they are not, and how much is permitted. It’s all about adding a little extra joy to their lives without disrupting their health or training. They enjoy the special treats I give them when they are good boys.
Learning the Needs of the Fur Babies
Just like any family member, each pet has unique needs and preferences. I make an effort to learn about their likes, dislikes, and any special care requirements. This knowledge helps me provide the best care and keep them happy and comfortable. It also helps that they can actually tell what they want. If they want to go out to pee or poop, they go to the door. Yuno, especially, kicks the door for emphasis. Neji points to the cabinet door where we keep their treats and then sits down to wait patiently.
Capturing Memories
I enjoy capturing adorable moments with my fur niece or nephew through photos and videos. These memories are not only fun to look back on but also a way to share their cuteness with their owners and other family members and friends who know them. Plus, it gives me a great excuse to create a dedicated album of our adventures together. It’s quite difficult to choose pictures to put in this blog.
Supporting Their Training
I support their training for basic obedience by reinforcing the same commands and behaviors that their owners have taught them. Consistency is key to successful training, and I want to contribute positively to their development. They always know to sit first when they want something—they sit before they can go in our out the door, they sit when they wait for their water bowls. They also sit, shake hands (paw)—twice—and then drop down before they get their treats.
A Fur Aunt Being There in Times of Need
Pets can sometimes feel anxious or stressed, especially in new situations or during their owners’ absence. Every time their owner leaves, they bark wildly, as if they are crying, not wanting the owner to go. As a fur aunt, I aim to provide comfort and reassurance during these times. Yuno fears everything related to the vet, including taking medicines. Neji is scared of loud, sudden noises and the thunder and lightning. Whether it’s through gentle petting, soothing words, or keeping them company, I strive to be a calming presence.
Sharing the Joy of Being a Fur Aunt
Being a fur aunt brings immense joy to my life. The unconditional love and playful energy of a pet are truly special. Every time I come home, they run to meet me. I see every waggle of their tail, every “smile” after they finish their favorite activity, and every sigh of contentment after I give them a good rub-down. I cherish every moment spent with my fur nephews and look forward to many more adventures together.
Embracing my role as a fur aunt has enriched my life in countless ways. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the joys of pet companionship while supporting and sharing in the love my family has for their furry friend. Being a fur aunt is a privilege, and I’m grateful for every wag, purr, and cuddle that comes my way.
