Petfishing refers to a strategy in online dating where individuals include images with animals in their profiles to appear more appealing, friendly, and affectionate. This might involve photos with a borrowed pet, such as a companion’s dog or a stray cat, or even sourced images, rather than their own. The goal is to project qualities like kindness, dependability, and enjoyment.
A survey by the dating app Happn among singles in India found that 19% have used or thought about using pet photos in their profiles. The appeal stems from the positive associations with pet ownership, including empathy and reliability, known as the halo effect. Profiles featuring pets often receive more attention, responses, and matches, and they provide easy conversation starters.
This practice extends beyond apps to in-person meetings. The same survey indicated that while 33% prefer traditional coffee dates, 25% opt for relaxed walks with dogs, and 20% discuss pets over tea. Such activities can ease tension and foster natural interactions.
However, petfishing can lead to issues when the reality emerges. If the animal belongs to someone else, it may cause feelings of deception or disappointment, particularly for those seeking genuine pet enthusiasts. For individuals with allergies or aversions to animals, this can become a significant obstacle. Authenticity is crucial in dating, and fabricating elements like pet ownership may undermine trust.
In India, where approximately 40 million homes have dogs or cats according to pet industry data, this trend aligns with widespread affection for animals. While it can increase profile visibility, experts advise against it for those without real interest in pets. Users should verify the authenticity of such profiles to avoid misleading situations.
