LGBTQIA+ DOG PARENTS ARE REDEFINING FAMILY LIFE, DISCOVERS RAE JOAN ELKINGTON AS SHE MEETS UP WITH FOUR MUMS AND DADS AND THEIR FURRY FRIENDS
UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE
Dogs offer an embrace of unconditional love and acceptance, qualities that resonate deeply with many in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Especially for those who have faced judgment, this bond becomes a lifeline. So, perhaps it’s no surprise that, as our queer family dynamics evolve, we see a rise of “fur gaybies”.
Our dogs, far from being mere pets, are beloved family members who provide companionship, love, and a profound sense of belonging. They transform a house into a home, creating a new family tapestry (that may have a few hairs on it.)
As Mrs Doubtfire wisely stated, “But if there’s love, dear… those are the ties that bind, and you’ll have a family in your heart, forever.” This sentiment captures the essence of many queer people’s experiences, for those of us whose children may boast four paws, a wet nose, and a wagging tail, filling our lives with immeasurable love and connection.
RISE OF THE FUR GAYBIES
Through the lens of social media, LGBTQIA+ families unveil their lives, with their canine “children” often stealing the spotlight. Stars like Tikka the Iggy, an Italian Greyhound with two dads and 1.5 million Instagram followers, parades in adorable dog fashion whilst watching over two little human siblings. Pampered Pitties Reign and Snoh captivate millions on TikTok with their ASMR grooming and healthcare routines and love for their two Mums. Over in Norway, handsome Einstein the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier also has two mums who share his rehab journey and heartwarming bromance with his human Uncle Hans on Instagram, showing how fur babies forge deep bonds with extended members of queer families too.
REDEFINING FAMILY WITH LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE
For LGBTQIA+ pet parents, dogs are not just companions; they are beloved family members, redefining traditions. In a world often rigid in relationship definitions, these families exemplify how love, acceptance, and connection transcend conventional boundaries. As these stories show, dogs play a pivotal role in the fabric of queer life, offering unconditional love and support.
As Jodie aptly puts it, “It’s about love, acceptance, connection, and support as well as creating memories.” Whether through social media fame or intimate family moments, these fur families are paving the way for a new understanding of what it means to be family.
After all, the love of a dog is unwavering and non-discriminatory, providing a haven of affection and companionship regardless of your identity or circumstances. Perhaps all family members should aspire to be a little more dog?
JP, FRED, HUGO AND COOPER
JP, a Creative Director in London, and Fred, an Engineering Manager, share their lives with their cherished sausage dogs, Hugo and Cooper. “Our dogs are our little family,” JP muses. “We decided children weren’t for us, but our dogs fill that space.”
Adopted as puppies from families unable to care for them, Hugo, once shy and introverted, found a perfect companion in the outgoing Cooper. Hugo and Cooper bring joy and companionship to their human Dads, especially on cherished trips to Cornwall.
“Who doesn’t love a gay man with a sausage dog?”
The couple’s adaptable work-from-home schedules enable them to take care of their dogs each day, sharing responsibilities. However, they often find themselves in disagreements about whose turn it is to clean the dogs’ teeth!
When asked if Hugo and Cooper help the couple to express their identity or connect with others in the community, JP explains that people recognise the dogs before they do them, exclaiming, “Who doesn’t love a gay man and a sausage dog?”
Fred and JP are proudly part of the LGBTQIA+ community, supporting professional networks and initiatives, with Hugo and Cooper often by their sides. They urge prospective pet parents to thoroughly research breeds to guarantee a good match with their lifestyle. Well said!
LISA, BEKKY AND HENRY
In Stirlingshire, Scotland, Lisa and Bekky have crafted their unique family with Henry, their mini wire-haired sausage dog. Lisa, a life coach, writer, and podcaster, and Bekky, a digital consultant and whisky enthusiast, revel in time in their garden with Henry.
In 2013, Lisa got Beatrice, a sausage dog, with her then-girlfriend. Both later formed new relationships with friends who also knew each other. A day trip discussion about puppies led to Henry’s arrival six months later along with his three siblings. Close ties have been maintained with Henry’s littermates, especially his brother Freddie, (who lives with Lisa’s parents) maintaining an extended sausage dog family bond.
“Family can look like so many things, and I love that we are redefining it”
“Family can look like so many things, and I love that we are redefining it,” Lisa reflects, “the idea of being a ‘fur parent’ and having ‘fur grandchildren’ has become much more normal than it was in the 90s and 00s. You only have to look at Etsy and you’ll find lots of dog grandma gifts.”
She emphasises how dogs like Henry offer comfort and support during tough times and believes moving beyond traditional family structures is crucial, allowing individuals to form meaningful connections based on love, acceptance, and shared memories.
CONNIE AND OATTIE
Connie shares a touching narrative about her special connection with Oattie, her French Bulldog, who came into her life after the passing of her older dog, Pepi, and helped her heal. “Whether we’re walking or lounging at home, he’s always there, offering love and companionship.”
Connie expresses gratefully. “Oattie is not just a pet; he’s a part of the family.”
As the social media manager for her business, The Social Evolution, Connie values how Oattie serves as her unofficial personal assistant, bringing needed structure and balance to Connie’s life, especially when working from home. Oattie insists on regular breaks and walks, which contribute positively to her daily routine and keep her grounded. “He expects breakfast at the same time every morning and is always ready for his walk,” she says. Oattie ensures Connie doesn’t forget about self-care.
“Oattie’s birthday is a big deal around here”
Oattie’s sociable nature brings joy to everyone they meet, whether at a coffee shop or the seafront. “Oattie’s birthday is a big deal around here,” Connie explains, sharing that she recently made her furry son a special tuna cake with his face on it “which he loved!” Connie also prepared party bags with treats inside for his dog walker to share with his pup pals — how cute!
Oattie’s presence has enriched Connie’s life, making it more fulfilling; what more could you ask from a chosen family member?
JODIE AND MARLEY
Jodie is a successful entrepreneur and proud mum of Marley, a Cavapoo. Marley joined Jodie’s family on 23 May 2014 and “she’s been part of every chapter since,” Jodie recalls.
Despite Jodie’s separation from Marley’s other human mum in 2019, Marley remains the heart of their chosen family, dividing her time between both homes. “She was our constant — still full of love, still needing her walks,”
Jodie reflects on how Marley helped them through the transition. Marley’s presence is a source of healing and companionship.
“Watching her grow over the years has been such a joy. She’s just the best girl”
For her family, Marley is a symbol of love and belonging, included in family festivities with her own little Christmas dinner and spoiled on her birthday with chicken, cuddles, and new toys. Last year, Marley sported a rainbow neck bandana at Portsmouth Pride with her other mummy, bringing smiles and sparking conversations. “Marley’s a real little connector, without even trying,” Jodie beams.
Outside of her role as Marley’s mum, Jodie runs a multi-award-winning online community which helps businesses use the free version of LinkedIn to become visible without spending a penny on marketing. To find her on LinkedIn, search for Jodie Goodchild.
