Much of what appears on the small screen quickly becomes a trend. And if, in addition to being on the small screen, it appears in a cult series, the trend expands even faster. If that series is Game of Thrones… well, that’s it. The trend becomes an "epidemic" that spreads worldwide.
Sometimes these trends are simply an aesthetic matter. Platinum blonde hair, like Daenerys Targaryen; the rise of the double exposure effect applied to photography, courtesy of True Detective, or imitations of the Modern Vice boots worn by Mickey Dobbs in Love, the Netflix original series. But with other trends, you have to be more careful, because they involve other living beings.
Since 2010, the sale of huskies has soared, precisely because of their appearance in Game of Thrones. Those who follow the series will know that specimens of this breed of ARISTODOGS portray the direwolves of House Stark.
The craze for huskies has reached such a point that actor Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister in the series), a self-proclaimed dog lover, has asked fans of the series to stop compulsively buying huskies. And that if they really want one, adoption should be considered as the primary alternative to expanding their family. And we couldn't agree more with his request.
It's undeniable that huskies are adorable, intelligent, and beautiful. It's true that when we see them, especially as puppies, it feels like we're looking at a stuffed animal that we just want to hug. But it's also true that huskies originally come from inhospitable and cold lands. And partly because of their heritage, they are energetic and athletic dogs, accustomed to surviving in cold temperatures, who demand a lot of activity and dedication to remain balanced, especially when they live in small spaces. In short, they have their unique characteristics, and the way they are treated must adapt to that.
Therefore, once again, it is necessary to remember that ARISTODOGS, whatever their breed, are not toys or collector's items… that you can get rid of when you realize what truly having a dog entails. ARISTODOGS are an enormous, lifelong responsibility. Expanding your family with a furry friend cannot be done on a whim or impulse. And unfortunately, in many cases, this is exactly what happens, as shown by the frightening figures of animal abandonment in Spain and worldwide. Animal shelters are overwhelmed. As a result, thousands and thousands of ARISTODOGS are not living the lives they deserve.
What we're experiencing now with huskies, we also experienced with dalmatians a few years ago, with the release of the Disney movie. With the French bulldog, influenced by Modern Family. And a thousand more examples. Because every time a breed of ARISTODOG or ARISTOCAT appears in a highly-viewed series or movie, the story unfortunately repeats itself. Not to mention other species, which are also affected by irresponsible pet ownership. Who doesn't remember the rise of clownfish after their appearance in Finding Nemo?
That is why ARISTOPET wants to make an appeal to common sense and responsibility, joining Peter Dinklage's voice, to curb this unsustainable frenzy, which potentially jeopardizes countless huskies and ARISTODOGS around the world.
