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quesera quesera

How do you react to people who talk about their pets like they're kids?

I love my animals, but I'm always surprised and a little annoyed by people at work who always have a story about something cute their dog did, want to talk about their pet-sitter search, etc. Frankly, I don't really want to hear about coworkers kids that much either, but come on--it's a dog! What do you say? Do you just nod and smile? Do you have a witty conversation stopper?
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marisaupa
marisaupa
Marked as Best! March 21, 2010 05:31 AM
In a casual conversation with a friend or acquaintance, unless there is an established mutual interest on the subject, the "second or third degree of detail rule" should always be adhered to. If one finds oneself divulging more than 2 or 3 levels of detail on a subject without first ascertaining that the other person has a sincere interest on the topic, I believe that one is being rude.

It could be about kids, pets, home, clothes, parents, spouse, what have you. The "second or third degree of detail rule" should always be followed. when it is not, it does annoy me. Sadly, I find it difficult to cut people off, so when I encounter that type of situation I usually just find myself having to endure it, grinning and nodding, raising my eyebrows every now and then, feinting interest.
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bootz
bootz
March 19, 2010 06:35 PM
I guess I'd react to that the same way I would react to almost anything another person wants to talk about. That's what matters to them or entertains them, so I'd be polite and respectful.

I don't think I'd try to shut them up with any kind of "witty conversation stopper" but if I needed to get back to my work or something, I would excuse myself.

Besides, their story might honestly turn out to be funny or cute, and there are worse things in life than listening to what someone else cares about. Those conversations can beat the daylights out of work complaints or griping about news stories, or whatever else people bring up throughout the day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i479N2ei8Us
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jillbeth
jillbeth
March 19, 2010 07:06 PM
I don't mind hearing dog stories, but a good way to get away from the topic is to change it as soon as you get the chance--

Coworker: My dog picked the winning lottery numbers this week.

You: What a smart dog. Did you see that game last night?
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patricecam...
patricecam...
March 19, 2010 09:38 PM
I react the same way as I do when people talk about their kids. Some pets are luckily enough to be a part of the family instead of a possession. If talking about kids and pets really bother you, change the topic to something you think will be of more interest to everyone.
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quesera
quesera
March 19, 2010 10:21 PM
I like my animals too, and don't consider them a possession. But seriously, I heard the same dog story four times today.
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bklynj
bklynj
March 20, 2010 12:51 AM
I'm with quesera I don't want to hear about your pets or your kids. I also find it annoying the people who talk about actors as if they're personal friends. The easiest thing to do is to walk away orr bury your head in your work or your cell phone just vibrated or...
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felice
felice
March 20, 2010 02:25 AM
laugh
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unwirklich
unwirklich
March 20, 2010 04:32 AM
I'd call it idle conversation and leave it at that. If I wasn't shooting for chatter I'd move on regardless of the topic. If you've formed a strong enough bond with an animal they do often feel like children and do adorable things like children. Such a bond does not make someone less adequate for idle chatter.
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ritrzblok
ritrzblok
March 20, 2010 05:24 AM
I engage them in conversation. But with those that I know personally, I can't help but poke a little fun. It's who I am.

Most that I know of do this because they have nothing else to care and nurture, so their pet becomes their child.

And if you think about it, pets are easier to raise!
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lidyax2
lidyax2
March 20, 2010 07:29 AM
People love to talk about things they are passionate about and if you are not passionate about it, then yes, it can get annoying. But that's their right and I respect that. It's like people who talk about sports, cars, or anything else that they like. Because I like pets, I will just hear them and give correct reply, such as "really", or "how cute". To be honest, I prefer people who talk about their pets than their children because I dont like children very much, but in society, especially if you are a female, you are expected to like children or love to hear about children. Well, I dont. I deal with preteens, teens, their parents, and their teachers everyday and that's enough for me.
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