As a puppy, I understand immediately why pet play is fun. The benefit to handlers is not as clear. I get to relax, mentally escape for a bit, let go of my cares and concerns for a while, and just live in the simplicity of the moment. There’s a lot that pet play has to offer—at least the pets. I mean, hell, it’s named after us, so it’s kind of a no-brainer why we might enjoy it.
But what about the handlers? What’s in it for them? Why would a handler actually like pet play, especially if it means more responsibility and work for them while we drop into headspace and have all the fun? When they participate, what makes a good handler? What should they do to be the best they can be—for themselves, their critters, and their communities? And what resources are available for people who want to learn more?
I talk with three different handlers about each of those questions. You’ll hear from Florida Community Bootblack 2021 Girlfriend, my good friend Handler Hunter, and Florida Puppy Contest Handler 2022 Chris. We come up with some good answers to most of the above questions, but not all of them. It seems there are precious few resources available out there for folks to learn this role well. Who knows, maybe there’s a sequel in our future!
