Neither do we, obviously. In fact, we were also stunned when we discovered «the existence» of a pet rental service called «Rent a Dog» or, in other words, «Rent a Doggy». Once our astonishment had passed, we were outraged.
We couldn't stop asking ourselves «who would do something like this?», «is nobody going to do anything to stop it?». The mere possibility of renting pets treats them as objects and denies them their status as «sentient beings», which is what they unquestionably are. But that's not all: it degrades them and may even put them in danger.
Rent-a-doggy presents itself as the first online dog rental service in Spain. Unique, practical, and fun! The supposed service offers the possibility of renting a dog for special occasions (a date, a birthday, a party). But also of renting one to succeed on social media and collect more likes (we all know how much we adore Instagram pets).
The service appeals to our emotions (dogs are our best friends) to reinforce the idea that renting one is a great plan. Because you get the good parts without «the bad». For example, you can enjoy a dog's company if you feel lonely. But you'll never have to take it to the vet - because the service handles that. It will play perfectly with your children. But you'll never have to bother training or correcting it. You can walk with it in the park. But you won't have to take it with you on holiday.
The «Rent a Doggy» service works very simply: you select the dog that best suits your needs. You check its availability and reserve it. You receive it 24 hours later. It's that easy. In addition, the dogs have «real reviews» from users who have rented them on previous occasions.
Having said all that... relax. Take a breath. Fortunately, there is «nothing» behind this service. It is an awareness campaign about animal adoption. Risky, yes. Also striking. And effective at setting off every alarm for anyone with a little common sense. Behind the initiative are the «Amigos del perro» foundation and Arrontes y Barrera, an Asturian communications agency.
«Rent a doggy» is not and cannot be a real service - even if it appears to be. A dog is neither a toy nor an object. It is a living being that must be cared for, respected, loved, valued, understood... Having a dog is a way of life, but also a commitment you take on from the moment your dog sets its paws in your home.
The campaign therefore urges people to act responsibly. And it promotes adoption as the best way to bring a dog into your life. Light-years away from buying and, of course, renting. And that is precisely the mission of «Amigos del perro»: to ensure that all the dogs in their care find a family that loves them and wants to share its life with them
Without a doubt, this is a provocative initiative that hits a nerve with all of us who feel a special connection with pets and are sensitive to these issues. Don't miss this summary video of the campaign.
We would like to remind you that at ARISTOPET we are also committed to pets' well-being and to raising social awareness in order to promote respect for animals. In this regard, we not only have a very close relationship with several animal shelters, but also give every user the option to donate 1% of their ARISTOSHOP purchases to the shelter of their choice.