First: pup play is not, and does not involve or condone, bestiality. NCF-PAH and the community at large forbid and condemn it. It is not welcome in our space.
pups, foxes, kitties, and more
What is pup, pet & critter play?
A dynamic topic — no one right answer, but there are certainly a few wrong ones.
Where it comes from
There are other resources online with more history and sources; here is a brief, high-level look. Pup play is a kink, even though for many it is non-sexual in nature. Many years ago, in Master/slave and other D/s relationships, it was used as a form of punishment and humiliation. People started recognizing the fun aspects of assuming the role of a pet/canine, and it became rather enjoyable for the pup and its Owner. It has since evolved into its own separate entity.
Although participants likely practice other Power Exchange/kinks, when in a pup scene and/or headspace, the distinct difference is that the pup is not viewed and treated as a hooman pet, but rather as a canine pet, aside from the obvious limitations and differences.
What people find
All around, pup/pet/critter play is a highly enjoyable experience for both the pup/pet/critter and their Handler. Not only does it allow everyone to shed the stresses of the day and let go of anxieties, it also opens the opportunity to explore oneself - whether diving further into headspace, using experiences for personal betterment, or even opening the doors to learning about other kinks.
Protocol — the rules of decorum — is sometimes quite loose and at times appears nonexistent. If you come from leather or other stricter kink communities, it may take some adjustment. Conversely, pups, pets, and critters should always respect the spaces and protocol of the communities they encounter. Other than staying Safe, Sane, and Consensual, it is pretty much down to negotiating interactions. When in doubt, politely inquire. NCF-PAH publishes a Code of Conduct; our friends at Florida Critter & Trainer Contest hold the same line in their code of conduct.
Read next
What is a Handler?
Handlers are the hooman who is the caretaker of the pups/pets, keeper of treats, and giver of scritches.
Learn more →Read next
What is a Pup / Pet / Critter?
A hooman pup/pet/critter is a person who places themselves into a headspace that mirrors that of the pup/pet/critter.
Learn more →A quick vocabulary
Words we actually use
- Pup / Pet / Critter
- A person who places themselves into a headspace that sometimes mirrors that of a canine or other pet/critter companion - a simpler mental state with fewer responsibilities than daily life. The only person who can decide that you’re a pup/pet/critter is you.
- Handler
- The hooman caretaker of pups, pets, and critters — keeper of treats, giver of scritches. A specialized, dynamic role focused on care and guidance. It is not inherently a Dominant role; every scene should stay Safe, Sane, and Consensual. (Contest spaces may say “trainer”; the caretaker role is the same idea.)
- Mosh
- A designated group space for pups and critters to socialize, wrestle, romp, and roll around together.
- Munch
- A casual, social gathering of the community - usually in a relaxed, public-friendly setting.
- Headspace
- The mental state a pup/pet/critter enters that mirrors that of the animal they identify with. Coming out of headspace can be an emotional or sensitive time — Handlers and trainers should be attentive to those needs.
- Pack
- A group of pups who come together to function as a unit. Some packs are social, some are family groups, some are otherwise structured. NCF-PAH itself is a community without the commitment of a pack.
Your experiences will vary - there’s a whole community out there eager to help and share their knowledge, if you are respectful and keep an open mind.
This is a journey of self-discovery and will be as unique for you as it was for us. If we can help answer any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
— Handler Chris and Puppy Stolas, founding members of NCF-PAH
A related edition for contest attendees lives at flcritter.com/what-is-pet-play.