“PETA”, Explain This? – People Identifying As Dogs Gather in Public

Halloween is near, but these people have a different bone to pick. While the world has become more accepting of people and their differences, this group of people is questioning everyone’s beliefs at the moment. So, what is going on? People identifying as dogs have taken the internet by storm, as viewers ended up calling animal control to find out why they have gathered in Berlin. Why did these people do it, and how did animal control react? Let’s find out together!

The Meetup of People Identifying As Dogs

Around 1,000 people identifying as dogs, recently held a gathering at the Berlin Potsdamer Platz railroad station in Germany. During this event, participants communicated exclusively by howling and barking, embracing their canine identities. This unusual assembly highlights the diversity of human identities and the importance of respecting personal expressions of self-identity. It also reflects the growing acceptance and visibility of subcultures and communities that embrace unique forms of self-expression and identity, contributing to the broader conversation about individuality and inclusion in society.

Not The First Time

The canine convention in Berlin, where people identifying as dogs rather than humans gather and communicate by howling, follows the viral trend of Toco, a man in Japan who fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a dog by purchasing a $14,000 hyperrealistic suit. Toco expressed his desire to meet others who share similar canine aspirations and has been referred to as a “therian.”

Experts have called for a clear distinction between “therians,” and “furries “. Therians identify as creatures other than humans, whereas “furries,” enjoy cosplaying in animal suits, emphasizing the diversity of these subcultures.

The Therian Belief System

Therians, short for “therianthropes,” are people who may believe they have the soul of an animal, such as a cat, reincarnated into a human body. This distinction was explained by Dr. Elizabeth Fein, an associate professor of psychology at Duquesne University. While some furries are Therians, and vice versa, these two groups are separate.

Other people who have gained internet fame for identifying as canine-human hybrids include Tom Peters. He identifies as a Dalmatian. Another person that can be added to the list is Toru Ueda. He is an engineer in Tokyo who spent $23,000 on a custom wolf suit. Ueda mentioned that when he wears his costume, he feels disconnected from his human identity and the associated problems in his life.

The Issue With People Identifying As Dogs

Additionally, there is a BDSM kink known as “puppy play” where participants, mainly men, use muzzles, collars, or leashes to engage in dog-like behavior. Additionally, the purchase and use of animal-themed costumes, particularly those made from real animal fur or materials sourced unethically, can raise concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact.

What do you think of this group of people? Is it okay for them to howl in public like that or are you fully against it? Let us know in the comment section!