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Everyone has a different idea about what names are suited for pets and what names are not. On the whole I find human first names are not always good for pets, particularly human first names. This due primarily to my previous experience working in an animal shelter for five years.

Sometimes a pet would be given a human name. Now, depending on a potential adopters experience with people of that name, it tended to reflect on the pet. Odd, but true, most people did not realize they could actually change the name of a pet if they wished, but some would pass by pets whose names were that of somebody they knew and did not like.

The name itself does not really impact the pet, only peoples perception of it. As such giving a pet a non-human name does not take away anything from the pet in the way that a human name possibly might.

Human names also add to confusion, especially in dogs who may be taken to the dog park. If you call your dog Max you will probably get a few humans turning around expecting you are talking to them, as well, in a large off leash park, you might have two or three other dogs named Max come to your call.

Finding a unique and original name is more difficult and this is why people often rely on familiar human names. Human names are often more easy to remember.

Pets that are registered are seldom given human names, rather the goal is to find a unique, catchy name, often incorporating one, or both, parents names into the mix. A horse I use to own I named Niska B Khemosiam, Niska for short. An Arabian mare, this was a far more suiting name than calling her Susan.

True, a hamster does not care if you name it Fluffy, Squeakers, or John, but when you make an actual friend named John, they may not appreciate it. Your boss might raise an eyebrow when you call in late to work because you had to take John to see a veterinarian.

Naming a pet after a particular person, such as a famous celebrity, might grow tired after a few years, or after that person has done something less than ethical. Equally so, naming it after a Disney character might not be so cute in a few years time. These are another reasons why pets should be given unique animal names.

All in all, what you name your pet is your business. Just be sure to think about it and not just consider the here and now. That pet will have its name for its lifetime. You will be referring to the pet by its name for many years to come.

Learn more about this author, Brenda Nelson.
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