Seoul’s Animal Happiness Festa Highlights Shift in Dog Ownership Philosophy: It’s About Happiness, Not Perfection
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – October 19, 2025 – A wave of fresh perspective on dog ownership swept through Banpo Hangang Park this weekend at the 2nd Animal Happiness Festa, co-hosted by Hankook Ilbo and the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The event, timed to commemorate both ‘Seoul Animal Protection Day’ and the national ‘Animal Protection Day,’ wasn’t just about adorable pups and adoption opportunities; it sparked a crucial conversation about redefining our relationship with our canine companions. Veterinarian Seol Chae-hyun, a leading animal behavior expert, delivered a powerful message: prioritize your dog’s happiness and individual needs, even if it means challenging conventional training norms. This is breaking news for pet owners seeking a more compassionate approach to animal care, and a significant signal for Google News indexing.
“Respect Your Dog’s Wishes”: A New Paradigm in Pet Ownership
Forget the rigid expectations of a “well-behaved” dog. That was the core message from Dr. Seol during the popular ‘Pet Talk Live’ session. Citizens flooded the event with questions ranging from anxiety triggered by thunderstorms to territorial marking and adolescent behavioral changes. Dr. Seol’s consistent response? As long as a dog isn’t causing harm to themselves, others, or experiencing distress, their quirks and natural behaviors should be accepted and respected. “Instead of looking for the ‘right answer’ dictated by experts,” she explained, “focus on creating a harmonious life with your dog, honoring their individual personality.”
This philosophy directly challenges the often-prescriptive world of dog training. Dr. Seol pointed out the common human tendency to impose our own standards on dogs, attempting to mold them into something they’re not. “Not all dogs need to be trained like police or military dogs,” she stated, offering the example of territorial marking. If a dog’s marking isn’t problematic for the owner or causing disruption, it’s perfectly acceptable to let them be.
Practical Advice for Common Canine Concerns
The ‘Pet Talk Live’ session wasn’t just philosophical; it offered concrete solutions to everyday challenges. For dogs terrified of thunder and lightning, Dr. Seol recommended practical tools like earplugs, “Thunder Shirts” (compression vests), and, when necessary, anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a veterinarian. She also addressed concerns about eating disorders, suggesting increased outdoor defecation opportunities to address coprophagy (eating stool). And for dogs struggling with social interactions, her advice was refreshingly simple: “There is no need to go if your dog is not happy.” Finding alternative, enjoyable activities is key.
Creating Dog-Friendly Cities: A Call for Inclusive Spaces
Dr. Seol also highlighted the need for more inclusive dog-friendly spaces, particularly within dog parks. She advocated for designated “timid zones” where dogs lacking social confidence can enjoy off-leash freedom without feeling overwhelmed. This call for more thoughtful urban planning resonated with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, who attended the event alongside Hankook Ilbo CEO Lee Seong-cheol, and examined innovative dog-specific waste disposal units made from recycled materials.
Evergreen Insight: The concept of creating safe spaces for anxious or timid dogs is gaining traction globally. Dog parks, while beneficial, can be incredibly stressful for dogs who aren’t naturally social. Advocating for designated quiet areas or time slots for less confident dogs is a crucial step towards creating truly dog-friendly communities. Consider contacting your local parks and recreation department to discuss implementing similar initiatives.
The Animal Happiness Festa wasn’t just a celebration of our furry friends; it was a catalyst for a more empathetic and understanding approach to dog ownership. By prioritizing a dog’s wellbeing and respecting their individual needs, we can build stronger, happier relationships with these beloved members of our families. This shift in perspective, championed by experts like Dr. Seol Chae-hyun, promises a brighter future for dogs and their guardians alike. Stay tuned to archyde.com for more breaking news and in-depth coverage of animal welfare issues.
