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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To not want pets !

56 replies

Nonpetgirl · 05/11/2025 11:25

Growing up we never had pets. Dh always had pets (loads). I’ve got allergies but just really don’t want pets and that was always fine now dh is saying the dc are missing out. I don’t think they are !

AIBU to think it’s very much like if one partner wants a baby and the other doesn’t that you then don’t have one ! Surely in this situation I get the final say ?

OP posts:
Coffeeishot · 05/11/2025 11:31

If you have allergies to fur then of course you get the final say it is a health concern . What kind of pets is he talking about?

AllJoyAndNoFun · 05/11/2025 11:30

I grew up with pets and haven’t had them as an adult other than DD had a hamster for a few years. Even with the hamster it all fell to me and it was just one more thing to think about when we are going away etc. and at least with a hamster you can leave it overnight. Dc would like a dog but I’m just not having the commitment of not being able to go out for more than a few hours at a time and having to organise dog sitters for nights away and holidays. So I’m saying YANBU unless your DH is prepared to effectively be the sole carer of said pet.

Nonpetgirl · 05/11/2025 11:29

YodasHairyButt · 05/11/2025 11:28

Absolutely you get a veto. And don’t be fooled by enthusiastic promises, you WILL end up being the one taking care of any pets in the house.

Yes I absolutely know I will end up having to help and I don’t want any more to do especially now the dc are getting older

OP posts:
Danioyellow · 05/11/2025 11:29

I forgot to add with the agreement that oh does the caring

Danioyellow · 05/11/2025 11:29

A pet is not a baby. I really do think that some compromise could be reached here with the variety of animals available. I do think children without pets are missing out a bit (assuming they actually want pets, which most children do). You could compromise on something small/low maintenance/no noise or smell. It doesn’t have to be a Labrador

YodasHairyButt · 05/11/2025 11:28

Absolutely you get a veto. And don’t be fooled by enthusiastic promises, you WILL end up being the one taking care of any pets in the house.