Hello, and welcome to The Care and Keeping of Your Pet! As you surely know, a pet is a big responsibility, and we're so glad you've decided to be a concientious master. A safe pet is a happy pet, and this handbook is certain to keep your precious lifelong friend as content as can be.
The history of the animal person is a long and difficult one, with their origins not being known even to this day. However, scientists believe that despite our common appearance - most animal people have humanoid forms except for the ears, tails, and sometimes teeth - we share no common ancestry, even if the ascent of this species corresponds with that of the homo sapien. We gained dominance over each breed thousands of years ago, beginning with the dog type, who have long been considered "man's best friend." Most breeds these days are docile and perfect for owners of any speed.
Of course, it is our duty as the superior species to take care of these animal creatures, and this is inherent in their genetic makeup. Everyone knows that an animal person, when matched with their correct human master, is loyal for life - a true "soulmate," if you will. Far be it for us to turn this away! Ever since the Great Domestication, these intelligent and loving animals have served us as friends, workmates, guardians, servants, and sexual companions and will for years to come. Despite recent hubbub from so-called "Pet People's Rights Activists," this way of life is wholesome and good. Scientific research shows that the natural desire of the pet person is to be owned and cared for by a human.
So, it's your first pet. What do you need to know?
 As previously stated, pet people come in as many breeds as you can possibly think of. By far and away the most popular are the dog and cat types, but exotic birds and lizards have been gaining popularity among trendsetters from L.A. to Tokyo!
All pet types are best suited for certain jobs, and when hunting for one, it is best to search for a type that suits your needs best.
However, a "True Match" - when a pet person bonds with you and only you for the rest of their natural lives - comes naturally, and sometimes takes time before you can find the pet you will be able to give a forever home to.
According to all current research, pet people are completely sentient and like us in many ways. However, it is important to remember that they have many animalistic and feral characteristics. Do not be foolish and think that your pet is a person, despite the facts that many are clothed and may be allowed to read, write, and have "hobbies." Some traditional pet owners may eschew these frivolities, and that is within their right.
Pet people age more quickly than humans, at least physically, and many types have long lifespans. It is not uncommon for pets to be passed through the family. When getting your child their first pet, it's important to keep in mind that just because the pup is tiny now, a grown pet can be jumpy around a small child.
It is important to train a pet. Discipline will be necessary. This does not make you a bad owner. Failure to train early will result in a rebellious pet. Training is especially important if you want your pet to serve as a household servant.
Remember, your pet will be extremely protective of you, especially if you are Truly Bonded. It is best to socialize them early. A socialized pet is a perfect family pet.
These days, unowned and unbonded pet people are allowed to live as strays or "Frees" in certain designated areas. Some even hold "jobs." This is against their best interest, and owners who adopt these strays are to be rewarded. Still, the best place to get pets are from liscenced kennels or breeders.
Some masters find it beneficial to participate in activities with their pets, such as shows and other competitions.
Finally, much has been made about the sexual relationship between pet and master. This is a normal facet of the bond, and humans are sure to find pet people sexually alluring. But beyond that, it is only responsible and prudent for owners to care for their pet's needs. It is a well-known fact that the libidos of pet people are remarkably strong, and when they go into heat, it is usually more convenient for a master to relieve them. There is no risk of pregnancy. All rumors of hybrids are urban legends.
Despite this, masters must remember to not view their pets as romantic partners. Humans should stay with humans.
With that said, thank you and welcome to your first day as a pet's master! |
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mirrormirrormeme) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
bakerstreet2016-05-18 08:45 pm
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You couldn't possibly do anything wrong, Master.
[From anyone else, it might be flattery. From Atsushi, it's just the plain truth. He knows his place - and that includes not forgiving his Master for any perceived misdoings when there can't be any of those in the first place.
All the while, he keeps his slightly widened gaze on Mika's. The mismatched eyes are mesmerizing. But that's not what this is about, and Atsushi tries to focus, finally casting down his gaze again.]
Is there... anything I can do for you?
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Mika's handshake is enthusiastic with that in mind, and he's still beaming happily.]
We could go grab somethin' to eat, if you want? I ain't too bad at cooking, but it's mostly just bakin' pastries 'n' stuff.
[And, to be honest, he's kind of had enough of savoury foods for the time being, so something a bit more elaborate seems like the best possible idea. He's got just enough spare change to pull it off for both of them.]
My treat!
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If... it's okay?
[He's trying to be subtle and not seem too eager - it wouldn't be the first time he was offered something only to have it taken from him - but now that he's reminded of food, he's also reminded of his hunger. He could really do with something, anything, to eat.]
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Yeah, no worries! ♪ [He nods emphatically, smiling so hard that it shows his teeth. There's no getting out of this now.] I know a couple places 'round here that make some nice desserts, how 'bout that? They got some good stuff for pets, too.
[At least he... thinks so? Would Atsushi really have to eat anything that a normal person wouldn't?]
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[Atsushi is starting to hope in spite of himself. An actual dessert! He's so excited!
Pets probably could eat anything a normal person would, but it might get served differently, or they might get fewer options? Either way, Atsushi will be extremely happy with whatever he gets - and he'll follow Mika eagerly to whatever place he deems fit.]
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Eheh. Y'know, I was hopin' a suggestion like that might make ya feel a lil' comfier around me. I'm not as big an' scary as a lotta other owners out there.
[It's just an offhand comment for the sake of not embarrassing himself with the self-flattery too much; he says it while turning on his heel, pointing out towards the street where they'll be headed. Mika's favourite place is entirely characteristic of him, decorated in bright colours with some out of season Halloween decorations still sitting about.]
Mentor's always lecturin' me about not spendin' too much at places like these, but I like to come here now and then when I got the chance.
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[Mika really isn't big and scary, is he? Could it be that Atsushi really, really lucked out for a change? What a dream that would be! He'll mess up at some point for sure, and start doubting himself and worrying all over again, but for now, he dares to open up a little.]
If it's that expensive, you don't have to get me anything. I can wait to eat until later.
[It's a treat, just being around a place like this, so cheerful with friendly-looking people all around.]
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For now, he's intent on making Atsushi feel like he's just another one of Mika's normal friends, so he digs his hands into his pockets to fish out some crumpled-up notes and loose change. He looks extremely proud of himself as he gives Atsushi another wide smile, holding up the fruits of his (literal) labour triumphantly.]
Nah, it's all good! I got some extra cash lyin' around just for times like these, see!
[And he'd sooner get in trouble for overspending than let someone go without eating. It's only courtesy. He's snickering to himself as he pushes open the door to the small cafe, breathing in the smell of all the pastries and cakes lining the glass cases inside.]
Aaa-hhhh~! Smells good, doesn't it?
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It really does!
[The smell is almost too much, overwhelming. Atsushi doesn't have a particular fondness of sweets, but he certainly doesn't dislike them, either. Following behind Mika a little uncertainly, he stares at the displays. He can't remember ever seeing so many cakes, all in one place.
But he can't get distracted! He should take this opportunity to learn something. This is his chance to finally become a good pet!]
What is Master's favorite?
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[So it only goes to reason that he walks right past the first set of displays -- all chocolate and glistening jams and the sort of stuff that you wouldn't want to eat too much of unless you were into some seriously masochistic stuff. Mika's eyes are on the more savoury desserts.]
See, the guy I live with -- my Mentor, he ain't the best at cookin' a lotta elaborate stuff, either. I figure I must've picked up a taste for milder stuff after spendin' so much time around him.
[He shrugs his shoulders nonchalantly, like he's just made a comment about the weather. This is usually the part where he'd offer Atsushi one of the candies he keeps stuffed in his pockets, but... He's a growing boy, and he worked a lot today! It's not his fault if he ate them all already. He kneels down to stare into the glass instead, pointing at a cake in the far back -- just a simple sponge, with some intricate patterns burned into the sides.]
Hey, Atsu-chin! See that? Cool, huh? Wonder how they get all those small designs on it like that?
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Standing only a little further back, Atsushi stares at the sponge cake Mika indicates. The nickname makes him do a double-take, but he doesn't mind it. Of course, Mika could call him anything at all and Atsushi wouldn't complain... A pet is a pet.]
It's so pretty, it almost seems a shame to eat it.
[But he would, in a heartbeat. That doesn't mean he can't admire the effort that went into decorating it, though!]
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[He says it fondly, because as silly as it sounds, he is entirely serious. Even in something small like this... Mika wants to mean something one day. Be good at something. Be worthy of people's praise and admiration. It's one of his favourite things about stores like this -- there's inspiration everywhere, and he's glad he can share it, even if just a little, with Atsushi now.]
Heh, but that's just thinkin' 'bout the future. No use doin' that now when we're both probably hungry, right? [Giving Atsushi a goofy laugh, Mika stands back up to his full height -- the spotlight's all on you now, tiger.] Found somethin' you like?
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[Color Atsushi impressed! Even ignoring present skills, ambitions are amazing things, and Atsushi admires them the more for having none of his own - unless you count staying alive. (That may not seem like a big one, but it has been at times, for him.)]
But it's wonderful, thinking about the future!
[He's not going to argue with the being hungry bit, though. Hmm, what to pick... If Mika's got his eyes on the sponge cake, should Atsushi pick that, too? Or stay away from it, rather..? Making your own choices is hard!]
Maybe... that one?
[He points at something with a topping made from raspberries, and nervously looks at Mika. Is that a good answer? Did he pass the test?!]
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[It might be in a pet's nature not to say anything against their owner, but... Well. If Mika tried showing Atsushi his 'skills,' neither of them would need to say anything to know that it's a disappointment, like most things Mika does. Still, he enjoys trying, and that's why he can smile about it despite his shortcomings.
Making a note to come up with a recipe that they might be able to try together sometime, Mika takes a glance at the cake Atsushi's picked out.]
Eh, that raspberry-lookin' one? [Way to make his choice look so basic..!!] I wasn't expectin' that outta you~ 'cuz ya look so plain, yeah? ♪ You got a bit of a sweet tooth, Atsu-chin?
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Atsushi cringes a little, unsure whether to take anything Mika says as a compliment or an insult. Is looking plain good? Is having a sweet tooth good - or at least better than the alternative?!]
I don't -... I just...
[It's not any fault of Mika's, just Atsushi's failure to understand him properly, but he's fumbling for words now, desperate to explain himself in a way that won't make Mika angry or offended, or look like Atsushi is just making excuses. In the end, as usual, the simple truth is the only thing he can offer.]
... It looks tasty.