Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Preppy Life: The Preppy Pet

There are few things dearer to a Prep’s heart than his or her pet. (Many Preps, in fact, are far more expressive of affection for their dog than for their children or spouse. This is, of course, one instance where the American WASP mentality is tied directly and inextricably to his ancestor: The Repressed Brit). The Preppy pet is a dog, and not a small, carry-it-in-your handbag sort of dog of the type popularized by Elle Woods and Paris Hilton. No, those are accessories, not pets, and they are NOT Preppy.

The Prep dog is medium to large in size and can be a rescue dog (usually a mutt) or a purebred. Perpetual Prep favorites are, of course, Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Both breeds are exceptionally popular because of their well-deserved reputations as “family dogs.” They are friendly, playful and generally very good with children. Classic Prep believes that rescued mixes are often an even better choice, and not only because they are in need of homes. Mutts are often smarter and less prone to health problems than purebreds; centuries of inbreeding are the cause of diseases common to Goldens and Labs such as joint dysplasia, cataracts and arthritis. (No offense to the people we know, most of whom are also the consequence of centuries of inbreeding). SPCA, Humane Society
Under no circumstances does the Preppy dog wear clothing or accessories (other than, of course, a collar). No matter how much you insist that your dog “just loves” wearing that pink velour hoodie, she does not. She feels ridiculous in it, and you look ridiculous for putting her in it. If you clothe your pet, stop reading. You are not Preppy.

14 comments:

  1. Love the preppy pet-I have 2 sons though. I'm in the gift giving mood. email me your address and I'll mail you a signed copy of SCs. beth@socialclimbers.net
    xoxo
    SC

    ReplyDelete
  2. "If you clothe your pet, stop reading. You are not Preppy." I LOVE THIS QUOTE! Your blog is just fabulous!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Just popped over to say that I love the blog. Keep writing.

    MB

    ReplyDelete
  4. I love your blog. I found a Preppy Handbook in my Dad's bookcase when I was young and thought... wow, this is our life! Keep writing! Le Petit Prep

    ReplyDelete
  5. Love your site!

    Keep up the info - very interesting. I'd love an update on restaurants/night spots.

    ReplyDelete
  6. love your blog, as well as the Preppy Handbook. Very much looking forward to The Prep coming out soon.

    What are your thoughts on the Siamese cat as a pet of a prepster (for the non-dog preppies)? While not necessarily preps, these classic 'stars' adored their Siamese cats. http://www.blackandtansiamese.com/historicsiamese/stars_siamese.htm

    Thanks to know your thoughts!
    Cricket

    ReplyDelete
  7. Your blog is charming; why did you stop writing?

    ReplyDelete
  8. old preppy here in Chestnut Hill Pa with a very preppy English Springer Spaniel. she is a great dog, loves the sofa, hairs and wetness all over the chintz

    ReplyDelete
  9. Need more!!! I hope you'll continue with your blog.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Is this blog going to continue?? I really enjoyed what you have here so far, but, do not understand why it is not being kept up.

    ReplyDelete
  11. To rescue a dog is one of the best ways to start a life with a companion that will be with you for their entire life. There are few ways for you and a loved one to stay warm on a cold winter night then to hug a big golden retriever. Preppy dogs do not wear clothes.


    Professional Doctorate by sebal

    ReplyDelete
  12. A working or hunting dog is the prep pet. My australian shepherd is to me
    Perfectly prep pet.

    ReplyDelete