bakerstreet | Pet People

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Pet People

The AU!Pet Person Meme (Shipping & Smut)

>> premise

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 conscientious 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 sapiens. 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!

>> how to play

Needless to say, The Care and Keeping of Your Pet is a bit biased and full of propaganda, but it gives a good idea of the world your character is now AU's into. They are either a pet person or a human master, and what that means for them varies.

So are they a devoted pet or a rebellious animal person looking to buck the system? A generous master or a cruel sexual sadist? Just a normal pet owner? Most likely they're something in between, but when you're raised in this world, it's difficult to see anything different on the horizon.

Rules

Comment with your character and say whether they'd be a master or a pet. Ideally, they could be played as both. Mention what kind of each they'd be and what they'd be like, (ie: "Xx-chan is a bunny girl who is happy to please her master" or "Asterothia is a cat boy who is aloof but loyal to his true master"). For pets, be sure to include features ("wolf ears, tail, teeth).

REMEMBER, pet does not automatically equal submissive and master automatically equal dominant. This is not a BDSM setting though BDSM can be included. How far you want to go with the actual "pet" aspect is up to you, as well. Your pet could just be your slightly-furry roommate or soulmate!
Comment to others.
Play out the scene.

>> prompts

This by now means an all-inclusive list, but it should get you going in the right direction.

First Time Pet/Owner: Usually, pets are gotten at a young age; you're an old dog. Can you learn new tricks?
True Bond: What all masters and pets yearn for...the pet's loyalty and adoration for life.
Love: It's expected for masters to love their pets, but to love them? Romance is strictly forbidden.
Old "Couple": Master and pet have grown together and know each other. You know, know each other.
Loss of Master: The pet has lost their master, perhaps even their True Bond. Is it possible to move on?
Young Master/Older Pet: Pets age quicker than masters, so it's possible to end up with a bit of an "age" difference.
Family Pet: This pet's been raised as part of the family. What happens when their feelings for a family member get more than platonic.
For Your Protection: You don't want to be a master, but you have to take in a pet for their protection lest they be in danger from the general public.
Stray: You're a stray or a "Free." Can you live like this with your biology screaming for you to make a match?
Servant: You're more servant than pet.
All Sex, All the Time: The only purpose for this pet is to service the master, and not in a way that means cleaning their house.
Guard: You're a loyal bodyguard, a service pet. You'll do anything for your master. Anything.
Pet Play: This is for those who prefer to keep their animals on leashes, have them eat from bowls, and keep away from clothing.
Breaking In: Training is important with any pet.
In Love with Another Master...or Pet: To lust after another's master is no better than treason, and to wish to be with another pet just cruel!
Punishment: Bad dog, no nookie!
Heat: All pets go into heat, and it's the responsibility of the owner to take care of this problem. After all, unchecked dry humping kills thousands every year.
Breeding: Breeders know the best qualities in each type and mate the cream of the crop together to continue lines. It's a hobby for some, a calling for others.
Pregnancy: So, about that whole "hybrid" thing. It maaaay be more true than you think, even if pet/human pregnancies are the stuff of salacious tabloids.
Territorial: Hey, hey, other dog person! This is your apartment. Stay the fuck out!
Kennel: Kennels are where unadopted pets are kept. They're generally agreed to be depressing places. Why not volunteer at one, keeping the pets healthy and happy with the kind of affection only humans can show?
Rebelling Against the System: Damn the Man! Pet people are people, too! Just be careful not to get talk. You know what happens to bad pets.
Instant Attraction: You ever just look at someone and know they're the one? That they're...your master? But what if you've been trying to fight it? Well, don't try!
Dominant Pet: You might be the pet, but you call the shots, at least in the bedroom.
Pet Show: Everyone wants to show off how perfect their animal is. Look at that ass! And you'll never believe their special skills...
Therapeutic: Pets, especially those bred for their kindliness, are perfect therapy for those who've been through trauma and heartache.
Jealousy: Who's that around your master? Oh, hell no. They better not be touching them!
Petting: Pet people are absolutely gaga for being touched. Even the most steely ones turn to mush for rubs.
Games: Playing with your pet and giving them exercise is a key to happiness. Of course, with a pet person, you might want to use other toys instead of a ball.

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[Now he looked interested and moved over towards Henry, movements sluggish. He could be fast, but there was no need for it at the moment. Had been no need for it ever since he arrived at Henry's place those months ago, feral as he had been back then.]

Oh. [Snow reached out and touched the pearls. So pretty. If he would have been human he would have made a twirl. Now he took the necklace and held it up in the sunlight, making the light reflect off of the pearls. He smiled in satisfaction to the gift.]

They are beautiful.

[He never gave any verbal thanks to the gifts. His gratitude got shown in that he immediately put the pearls on and in the way he wrapped his long body around Henry in some strange form of hug. It would be easy for him to squeeze the other until no life were left in him, but he just securely kept him in his coils.]

[Henry didn't need to be told thanks, they were happy that Snow White liked the gift so much, and he always held them so nicely. They liked the firm press on their body, and the smoothness of his scales. Henry could pet him all day. Smooooooooth~]

They suit you! I think I've got an eye for this. Like in my skull I mean, not a talisman, although that would be popular to make.

[What an inspiration! Henry usually coasted along by making amulets and spells for others, being very skilled.]

By the way, what kind of clothes would you like? You're gonna be a walking jewelbox at this rate!

[Snow White let out a thoughtful hum, leaning against Henry. Wrapped up as the other were, the human now served as a perfect headrest. And a pillar of warmth. Clothes wasn't something he had been thinking about. It was a very human thing, but that went for his jewels as well. And clothes would help to protect him against the elements. Perhaps he could even venture out for a bit if he got something. He had been stuck inside for so long now.]

I don't know. Something nice. I refuse to put on anything unflattering.

[So very helpful, but with the limited knowledge he had about clothing that was as good of an answer he could give. It would probably just be easier to take him somewhere where he could look at some options, but that meant he needed to get close to people and he so wasn't a people person. Henry was one thing, but other humans? Nope, not feeling up for that.]

[Being a space heater sure was cozy! Henry hadn't had a roommate or pet in a while, so they didn't realize how much they missed having another being around until Snow White came in. They liked how Snow White would squish them and lean on them.]

Yep! I could show you what I have, and you can look at some catalogs or magazines, or online. You don't have to decide right away.

[Typical answer, but it just meant that Snow White didn't have immediate desires, and would have to develop some. Offhand Henry thinks something monochrome would suit him, but also red to go with all that stark coloring.]

[Henry was a perfect space heater. Warm and cozy and relaxing. Snow White had not even come to realize how much of his guard he let down around the other. In the beginning he had been suspicious and kept his distance. Why would a human offer him a place to stay without asking for anything in return? He had always been told that humans were full of deceit and lies. Henry was just odd and constantly cheerful.]

I don't think your style of clothing will suit me. I need something fitting for a splendid being like myself.

[Snow frowned, but not because of the subject of clothing.] There is an itchy spot right by your hand. [Scratch it went unsaid. It should be clear enough.]

[Henry didn't mind the distance at first, they remembered how hard it was for themself to trust people after... well, any time something really nasty happened. Those things took time. Henry's just glad Snow White is comfortable enough to give hugs.]

I could get some magazines to look through, or my computer. Probably a top of some kind? Something that isn't long enough to drag on the ground.

[Aww, how adorable! Of course Henry can't resist giving a good scratch.]

You aren't molting right.

Tops are the only thing I would be able to wear, I don't exactly have legs.

[And it would be incredibly impractical for him to wear some kind of tube on his tail. It might help to keep him warm, but blankets and indoors did the same thing.

Snow white let out a satisfied hum as Henry scratched over that itchy spot. Sure he could have taken care of it himself, but it felt so much better to have another doing it for him.]

That might be the case if this itching persist. I really dislike having to shed skin.

I guess anything on your tail would get in the way huh.

[Almost a shame, Snow White's tail was really elegant and smooth. Didn't seem like it'd shed soon, but Henry only made an effort to look up on snake care recently, so they weren't an expert.]

I bet. I've been sunburned before so my skin peeled from that, but it's probably less painful for you. So for now let me go so I can put the shopping away and I'll get you some things to look at.

It is incredibly annoying. The constant itching all over until the top layer of scales have become lose enough to get out of.

[There was a lot of twisting around and trying to find ways to scratch his whole tail all at once. As of yet he had not found a good way.]

Fine. [Snow did not sound pleased over having to let his living source of warmth go, but he did loosen up his coils to free Henry. And he that had felt another nap closing in.]

Oof, that does sound rough. I'll try and help when you do molt.

[Already Henry is trying to think of solutions. Maybe a brush? Or some kind of rubbing material? Regular snakes usually started at the head but making Snow White would start lower down where his scales started.

In the meantime, Henry gets up and stretches before putting away the groceries and getting a catalog they had lying around. They'll have to find some magazines later, but for now their computer would be useful.]

I know this is the one I use but maybe you could find something? You can search online too.

[Snow curled back up after Henry had left his coils. It might be warm inside, but instincts still told him that he were supposed to hibernate, making him slow and prone to just laze around. Once spring kicked in for real he would regain his energy.

When Henry returned, Snow White held his hand out so he could receive the catalog, red eyes opening. Henry's style wasn't what he imagined he would look good in, but there might be something interesting in it anyway.]

[Henry liked cuddling as much as the next guy but they really needed to put the groceries away. Maybe Henry should offer the bed again, it'd be really nice to snooze away while wrapped in Snow White's coils.

When they returned, Henry held out a catalogue and nestled against Snow White's tail again, opening their laptop and looking for some likely sites.]

If you get inspired, let me know!

[Opening the catalogue on a random page, Snow White frowned and twisted and turned the catalogue until he held it as far away from himself as possible with eyes open wide like he were trying to imitate an owl.]

Hey, how come that it is so hard to look through this thing? Everything is kind of fuzzy unless I do this.

[And having his eyes open like that was kind of making a headache sneak up on him ever so slowly.]

Hm?

[Henry looks up from the laptop and looks at Snow White for several seconds.]

Oh, are you farsighted? Like, are things fuzzy when they're up close?

Farsighted?

[Snow lowered the catalogue to look questioningly at Henry. Poor eyesight wasn't a concept he were familiar with. On the other hand there had been a lot of things he had not been familiar with before meeting Henry.]

Um, I guess so? I don't like to look at thing closely because they just get all blurry.

Sounds like it! Often peoples' eyes don't focus the right way so they need glasses or contacts to fix their vision.

[Henry wonders if they can get Snow White under their insurance. Maybe registering him as a dependent? Hmm, hmm, either way, Henry wants to help Snow White see better. Gods know Henry's been asked about their eyesight enough because of their squint, but that was only because sunlight was too bright most of the time.]

If you like, I could make an appointment with an eye doctor and figure out what kind of glasses you need.

If it will help me to see better then it probably is for the best to get me an appointment.

[Not that he were overly fond of the idea of having to be in contact with other humans, but if it would benefit him then he guessed he could handle it. No matter how much he would deny being a pet, he still had to admit that he had grown dependent on Henry's support. He had been domesticated. Somewhat.]

Yeah! Don't worry, I'll tell them about you so there won't be any awkwardness.

[The eye doctors they knew were nice, and kept chocolate on the opening desk. They even helped Henry keep their eyes open during hard parts like taking their eye pressure and dabbing dye onto their eyeballs.]

Do you think you'll have trouble with others touching your eyes? That's the part I have the most difficulty with.

I have to be touched?

[Snow White both looked and sounded displeased by that. Having to be close to other humans were one thing, but being touched as well? Henry was the only one he allowed that close.]

This better be worth it and you better be with me through the whole ordeal.

Not directly! Just an instrument and some tabs to dye your eyes, but the doctors I know are nice and patient when it comes to that so you can do it on your own if you like.

[Henry had chosen them for those qualities after all.]

Mostly it'll just be looking at different images and answering questions so they can figure out what kind of glasses or contacts are best for you.

You still have to stay with me.

[And to make it very clear that Henry had no choice in the matter, Snow wrapped himself around Henry all over again. If he was going to have to get through with this then he would need the only person he felt comfortable around.]

Totally! I'm not gonna abandon ya.

[Henry is pretty sure their eye doc will be okay with that, since she's always been patient with Henry and wanted to keep them comfortable. If Snow White needed them there, then that should be okay. Henry snuggles into Snow White again, enjoying their smooth body.]

I think you'd look cute in glasses!

[Abandon. The word stung and Snow White flinched. He had been abandoned by his family far too recently to be comfortable around the word. There was a reason as to why Henry had found him on his own. The idea of losing Henry, especially with how much he had come to depend on the human, scared him.

The voice of his mother played through his head, telling him how worthless he were. That he was just a freak and that he would do the world a favour by simply dying. How his white scales were the most hideous things in existence.

Without even realizing it, he had covered his ears, closed his eyes tight and started to mumbled to himself. The word that got repeated the most being lies.]

[Whuh-oh, this was bad! Henry knew a trauma response when they saw it, how overwhelming things could get. Normally Henry would give Snow White some space, but with the white tail coiled about them that wasn't really possible. So Henry made a tentative touch at Snow White's elbow, something he could easily shrug off.]

Snow White, Snow White, hey, it's okay, you're safe here.

[The touch was soft and warm. Mother's touch were never like that. Hers were hard and cold, like stone or iron. Red eyes opened to stare into Henry's face. There were tears burning in the corner of his eyes and his body was trembling. Pulling in a shaky breath, Snow White slowly moved his hands away from his ears and instead clutch them into the human's clothing, hiding away his face there as well.]

.....Don't you ever leave me. If you do I will find you and kill you.

[He had been through shit and it had messed him up quite a bit. All of his acting indifferent and speaking harshly, was him not knowing how to deal with his own emotions. He wanted to trust Henry, but the last person he should have been able to trust had left him to die.]

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