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			{{short description\|Animal roleplay or petplay (erotic roleplay related to BDSM)}}
	{{Refimprove\|date=May 2008}}
			{{Use mdy dates\|date=October 2020}}
	'''Animal roleplay''' may be either a non-sexual or an ] (when it may also be called '''petplay''', '''ponyplay''', '''ponyism''', '''kittenplay''', or '''pup-play'''). In its erotic sexual role-play form, one or more of the participants takes on the role of a real or imaginary animal in character, including appropriate ]s and ], and sometimes a partner will act as another animal, or, in a sexual context, may take the role of rider, trainer, or caretaker (or even ]).
			{{refimprove\|date=July 2024}}
			], at USA's ], the world's largest ] and ] festival.]]

			'''Animal roleplay''' is a form of ] where at least one participant plays the part of a non-human ]. As with most forms of roleplay, its uses include ] and ].
	The principal theme of animal roleplay is usually the voluntary transformation of a human being to animal status, and focus on the altered mind-space created. The most common examples are probably ]s (], ], ]), ]s (], ], ]) or ]s (], ]). Animal roleplay is also used in a ] context, where a person may be ] by being treated as an animal.

			Animal roleplay may also be found in ] contexts, where an individual may take part in a dominant/submissive relationship by being treated as an animal. The activity is often referred to as ''petplay''. However, not all types of animal roleplay within BDSM are petplay and not all petplay in BDSM involves roleplaying as an animal; some can be referred to as primal play.{{Citation needed\|date=April 2023}}
	In ], animal roleplay may be used for a person to explore their personality, as a form of ].

	==Overview==		==Overview==
			]. He is held using a dog ].]]
	The origins of animal ] and petplay are probably various and diverse, again depending upon the participants involved. However, its origins are certainly influenced by ], ], ] and ], roleplay and ] in their various aspects. Some of the earliest published images of animal play (especially pony play) are to be found in the work of ], primarily in ] magazine published from 1948 to 1959. The first commercial manifestation of this fetish was created by Simon Benson the founder of the Petgirls website. {{Citation needed\|date=May 2011}}

			The origins of animal ] and petplay are probably various and diverse, again depending upon the participants involved. However, its origins are certainly influenced by ], ], ] and ], roleplay and ] in their various aspects. Some of the earliest published images of animal play (especially pony play) are to be found in the work of ], primarily in '']'' magazine published from 1946 to 1959.

			Some of the equipment that can be used in animal roleplay include ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ]s, etc.<ref name=Taormino2012>{{cite book\|last1=Taormino\|first1=Tristan\|title=The ultimate guide to kink : BDSM, role play, and the erotic edge\|date=2012\|publisher=Cleis Press\|location=Berkeley\|isbn=9781573447829\|chapter=Chapter 12. A romp on the wild side: erotic human animal roleplaying}}</ref>

	===Cultural and ritual use===		===Cultural and ritual use===
			{{See also\|Shapeshifting}}
	Non-sexual animal roleplay, or ], was a common and integral part of ] in many tribal cultures both in recent and likely prehistoric times, where a member (or members) of the tribe would take the role physically and often spiritually, of an animal that was either revered, or hunted. Examples of the former include many of the ] and Arctic native peoples, examples of the latter are evidenced by ]s. In 1911 ] photographed the last Animal Dance ("]") performed by the Northern ] of ].
			Non-sexual animal roleplay was a common and integral part of ] in many tribal cultures both in recent and likely prehistoric times, where a member (or members) of the tribe would take the role physically and often spiritually of an animal that was either revered or hunted. Examples of the former include many of the ] and ]. Examples of the latter are evidenced by ]s. In 1911, Julia Tuell photographed the last Animal Dance ("Massaum") performed by the Northern ] of ].

	It is also sometimes used in ], especially ], as ~~an enjoyable~~ way to encourage people to ] the body in unusual ways, by ]king various animals.		It is also sometimes used in ], especially ], as a way to encourage people to ] the body in unusual ways, by ]king various animals.{{Citation Needed\|date=August 2024}}

	==~~=Erotic~~ ~~use=~~==		==Other forms==
	{{~~See~~ also\|~~Furry~~ ~~fandom#Sexual aspects~~}}		{{see also\|Play (activity)}}
	] with her owner at San Francisco's ], the world's largest ] and ] festival.]]
	Like much of erotic play and roleplay, animal roleplay in an erotic or relational context is entirely defined by the people involved and by their mood and interests at the time of play. It ranges from the simple imitation of a vocal whinnying of a horse to the barking, panting or playful nudging of a puppy, or playful behaviour of a kitten, to crawling around on all fours and being fed, or petted, by hand. (In the latter instance, its motives may be similar to those of ], i.e. taking on a role that one feels spiritually appropriate or which allows for nurturing, and a change from usual roles in everyday life). To the greater extremes of dressing up as a pony in modified horse tack, masks, ]s and temporary bondage based body modification (such as binding the forearms to the upperarms and/or the calves to the thighs).

			Some ]es, ]s, and ]s also feature elements related to pet play; such as ]'s ], Batman, ], ] and ], ]'s ], ] and ], or even ]'s Irena Gallier in the 1982 film '']'' (a remake of the ]), and Miss Kitty from the ] movie '']''. All involve animal qualities taken on by a human. Some would even count the enactment or spiritual belief in therianthropy (], ]s, etc.) as falling under human animal roleplay or transformation play as well.
	Public participation in human animal roleplay is varied. A couple could inconspicuously role-play a silly but loving pet play scene in public, but it would look like one partner is merely stroking the other's neck innocently to the casual observer. In the case of many convention-going ] and some BDSM ]ists, one partner may wear a dog collar with a leash attached.

			]'s 1973 play '']'' tells the story of a young man who has a pathological religious fascination with horses, but this appears closer to ] than pet play. ]'s 1981 musical '']'' traces a tribe of urban cats, and in 2007 '']'' used full size puppets to play horses on stage.
	The reasons for playing such a character or animal can vary as much as the actual physical manifestations and intensity of the play. Some people enjoy being able to "cut loose" into a different, or more dynamic personality (e.g., Were-creatures or ]; see ]). In some cases, pet play is seen as a loving, quiet cuddling time where there is no need for verbalizations and the simple act of stroking, rubbing and holding the other partner is satisfying or reassuring in and of itself for those involved. For others, there may be a ] side to it. Some feel closer to their animal ], while others may identify with something akin to a deeper side or part of their own psyche (see: ]). For still others, there is the experience of ] setup in a context or structure which they can accept. Clearly, again, it depends on the people involved and what they bring to it or take from it.

			==Erotic scenarios==
	Additionally, some cases could be considered a type of ]. They can have strong elements of ], be totally enjoyed in the privacy of the home, or lie somewhere between either boundary. While not widespread, erotic human-animal roleplay is still enjoyed by a sizable number of people. However, it is still primarily identified with ] practice, or as being associated with ] or other ] activities.
			{{One source section
			\| date = January 2022
			}}]]]
			], 2014]]

			Like much of erotic play and roleplay, animal roleplay in an erotic or relational context is entirely defined by the people involved and by their mood and interests at the time of play. It ranges from the simple imitation of a vocal "whinnying" of a horse to the barking, panting or playful nudging of a puppy, or playful behaviour of a kitten, to crawling around on all fours and being fed, or petted, by hand. To the greater extremes of dressing up as a pony in modified horse tack, masks, ]s and temporary bondage based body modification (such as binding the forearms to the upperarms and/or the calves to the thighs).
	For some<ref>http://www.the-stampede.com/home.html accessed 10/14/2010</ref> participants, it has no connection whatsoever with ], which is controversial and would usually be considered ] in BDSM circles.

			Public participation in human animal roleplay is varied. A couple could inconspicuously role-play a pet play scene in public, which would look to the casual observer like one partner is merely stroking the other's neck. In the case of some BDSM ]ists, one partner may wear a ] with a ] attached.
	====Autozoophilia====
	{{main\|Erotic target location error#Autozoophilia}}
	'''Autozoophilia''' is sexual arousal that depends on acting out or imagining one's self as an animal. Paraphilic interests that involve being in another form have been referred to as ] (ETLEs), and autozoophilia would represent an ] form of ].<ref name=lawrence>Lawrence, A. A. (2009). Erotic target location errors: An under appreciated paraphilic dimension. ''Journal of Sex Research, 46,'' 194-215.</ref>

			The reasons for playing such a character or animal can vary as much as the physical manifestations and intensity of the play. Some people enjoy being able to "cut loose" into a different, or more dynamic personality (see ]). In some cases, pet play is seen as a loving, quiet cuddling time where there is no need for verbalizations and the simple act of stroking, rubbing and holding the other partner is satisfying or reassuring in and of itself for those involved. For others, there may be a ] side to it. Some feel closer to their animal ], while others may identify with something akin to a deeper side or part of their own psyche (known as ]). For still others, there is the experience of ] setup in a context or structure which they can accept.
	==Other considerations==
	It should be pointed out that each type of play can focus on a certain "strength" of an animal character. Pony play often involves the practice and training that a ] owner or ] would put their horse through to learn how to walk, canter, etc., as modified for human limbs. Puppy play often can involve BDSM related discipline. Cow Play often involves fantasies of ] and ]. The usual limits of ] apply to roleplay as much as any other activity between humans who accept and respect their partner's interests and limits. For most, this does not include bestiality.

			Some cases could be considered a type of animal transformation fantasy. They can have strong elements of ], be totally enjoyed in the privacy of the home, or lie somewhere between either boundary. While not widespread, erotic human-animal roleplay is still enjoyed by a sizable number of people. However, it is still primarily identified with ] practice. Though commonly misinterpreted as being associated with ] or other ] activities, that is generally not the case though some instances may exist.
	Note: Just because one partner is playing the "pet" does not necessarily make them the passive or submissive play partner in the ]. For example, if the form of pet play is for the meek and timid wife to "transform" into a ] or mischievous ] ], she may take the upper hand and dominate the partner. Again, how the play is interpreted is entirely up to the people involved.

			For most participants, it has no connection whatsoever with ], which is controversial and would usually be considered ] in BDSM circles.
	===Use in BDSM===
	Some people believe that they have certain animal 'instincts' and through animal roleplay can let them out. This is especially true in the BDSM communities, where some people 'live' as their chosen animal 24/7. This type of mentality goes beyond roleplay and becomes a full lifestyle for the parties involved. There are also 'hybrids'. These are humans who live part-time as one type of animal, and part-time as another. This is usually determined by the situation.

			===Other considerations===
	There seems to be a growing trend among the BDSM scene in animal roleplay, especially pup and kitten play. Playing the role of a pup or kitten is one of giving over complete control over to another, while the 'Master or Handler' expects only unconditional love and obedience from his/her animal.
			]
			Each type of play can focus on a certain "strength" of an animal character. Pony play often involves the practice and training that a ] owner or ] would put their horse through to learn how to walk, ], etc., as modified for human limbs. Puppy and kitten play often can involve BDSM related discipline. Cow Play often involves fantasies of ] and ]. The usual limits of ] apply to roleplay as much as any other activity between humans who accept and respect their partner's interests and limits. For most, this does not include bestiality.

			Just because one partner is playing the "pet" does not necessarily make them the passive or submissive play partner in the ].
	====BDSM Pony Play====
	{{Double image\|right\|Home_ponyplay_by_DeviantCT.jpg\|{{#expr: (160 * (825 / 1300)) round 0}}\|Ponyplay Event Ukraine.jpg\|{{#expr: (160 * (1200 / 798)) round 0}}\|Ponyboy and ponygirl\|"PONYPLAY" exhibition in Sevastopol, Ukraine.}}

			===BDSM scenarios===
	Pony-play is sometimes referred to as "The Aristotelian Perversion," in reference to legend that ] had a penchant for being ridden like a horse.<ref name=maxawesome>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.maximumawesome.com/pervfriday/ponypeople.htm\|title=Pony people, ponyboys and ponygirls\|author=Malfouka\|accessdate=February 14, 2011}}{{Verify credibility\|date=August 2012}}</ref>{{Verify credibility\|date=August 2012}}

			Some people believe that they have certain animal ']s' and that they can let them out through animal roleplay. This is especially true in the BDSM communities, where some people 'live' as their chosen animal 24/7.{{citation needed\|date=September 2015}} This type of mentality goes beyond roleplay and becomes a full lifestyle for the parties involved. There are also 'hybrids'. These are humans who live part-time as one type of animal, and part-time as another. This is usually determined by the situation.
	Ponies (people involved in pony-play) generally divide themselves to three groups<ref name=maxawesome/>{{Verify credibility\|date=August 2012}} although some will participate in two or perhaps all three:

			In the BDSM scene, people engage in animal roleplay to build stronger emotional connections. People develop deep emotional connections with their pets. Petplay, especially pup and kitten play seeks to create the same deep emotional connection between the owner/master and submissive/pet. The dom may demand unconditional love and obedience, but they may also train their pet to be more emotionally perceptive and empathic. This helps the sub feel safe and secure in the relationship.<ref>{{cite web\|title=Petplay: Training with Hypnosis and Meditation\|date=June 24, 2019 \|url=https://www.hypnoticdreams.com/petplay-training-hypnosis-and-meditation/\|access-date=2019-06-26\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626180216/https://www.hypnoticdreams.com/petplay-training-hypnosis-and-meditation/\|archive-date=2019-06-26\|url-status=live}}</ref>
	*Cart ponies: ponies who pull a ] with their owner.
	*Riding ponies: ponies who are ridden, either on all fours or on two legs, with the "rider" on the shoulders of the "pony" (also known as ''Shoulder riding''). Note that a human back is generally not strong enough to take the weight of another adult without risk of injury, so four-legged "riding" is generally symbolic, with the "rider" taking most of their weight on their own legs.
	*Show ponies: ponies who show off their ] skills and often wear elaborate harnessess, plumes and so on.

			==Types of animal roleplay==
	A documentary film ''Pony Passion'' was produced by British pony play club De Ferre in 2003 showing their club's activities and '''', a 2005 ], depicted the lives of several pony-play enthusiasts.

			The following section lists specific animal roleplay communities centered around a single type of animal.
	====BDSM Puppy Play====
	] Puppy play or dog play is where at least one of the participants acts out ] mannerisms and behaviors, it is sometimes associated with ]. The dominant role is taken by a "Handler", "Trainer", "Master", or in the case of someone who still identifies as canine, an "alpha". The submissive may be considered a "pup" or a "dog". Unlike other forms of animal roleplay, it is not uncommon for two or more pups to play together as equals, fight for dominance, or play where one is clearly the "alpha". Puppy play is often about being playful, mischievous, and instinctive.<ref> accessed 4 July 2008</ref> In relation to other BDSM play, a "puppy" who is "unowned" or "]" can be referred to as a "stray". Other elements rooted in BDSM play involve bondage and restriction with collars, leashes, cages, and hoods, the submissive's hands are often covered in mitts, both sexual and non-sexual services are requested, and "training" may take place in order to teach commands. The submissive may be asked to bark, kiss/lick the dominant's foot/shoe, and eat like a dog.

			==={{Anchor\|Human pony\|Pony play}} Pony play===
	====BDSM Kitten Play====
			<!-- This Anchor tag serves to provide a permanent target for incoming section links. Please do not move it out of the section heading, even though it disrupts edit summary generation (you can manually fix the edit summary before you save your changes). Please do not modify it, even if you modify the section title. It is always best to anchor an old section header that has been changed so that links to it won't be broken. See ] for details. (This text: ]) -->
	]
			{{multiple image
	In kitten-play the person assumes the less serious role of a pet that keeps some independence and - as part of the fantasy - might retaliate against the partner trying to tame him or her.
			\| align = right
			\| image1 = Folsom street fair 2008 Pony Girl.jpg
			\| width1 = {{#expr: (197 * (820 / 1275)) round 0}}
			\| alt1 =
			\| caption1 =
			\| image2 = Day 268- Rider.jpg
			\| width2 = {{#expr: (190 * (3456 / 5184)) round 0}}
			\| alt2 =
			\| caption2 =
			\| footer = Pony play at ]
			}}

			Pony play is where at least one of the participants dresses to resemble and assumes the mannerisms and character of an ] animal. A documentary film ''Pony Passion'' was produced by British pony play club De Ferre in 2003 showing their club's activities and the 2005 ], ''Born in a Barn'', depicted the lives of several pony-play enthusiasts.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0476963/\|title=Born in a Barn\|date=1 February 2005\|access-date=24 September 2017\|website=IMDb.com\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170209060736/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0476963/\|archive-date=9 February 2017\|url-status=live}}</ref>
	===Other variations===

			Pony play is sometimes referred to as "The Aristotelian Perversion" or "Aristotle’s Perversion", in reference to ], an apocryphal story where the philosopher ] was persuaded to let a woman named Phyllis ride him like a horse, in promised exchange for sexual favors: an episode depicted in various woodcuts and other works of art.
	Some consider costume play, or ''], ] ]'' to be a form or look of pet play as well, because these are generally young female characters that have the combined aspects of females and cats (generally a human girl with cat ears, a tail, fangs and a propensity for catlike affection or curiosity). Examples would be Cat Girl ], Pink from Dragon Pink and others. Some ]es, ]s and ]s could also be classified as related to pet play, such as ]'s ], ] and ], ]'s ], ] and ], or even ]'s Irena Gallier in the 1982 film ] (a remake of the ]), and Miss Kitty from the ] movie ]. All involve animal qualities taken on by a human. Some would even count the enactment or spiritual belief in therianthropy (], ]s, etc.) as falling under human animal roleplay or transformation play as well.

			===Kitten play===
	One group, the LA Ponies and Critters Club, takes the community idea of BDSM animal roleplay further by staging a mock ] in local forested areas. These events bring together ponyplayers, puppyplayers and their respective humans for a cooperative, community bonding activity. One of the canine players volunteers to be the “fox” and marks a trail in the forest. The other puppyplayers form the pack of “hounds” that search out the fox and bark/howl to bring the ponyplayers and their “riders” to capture the “fox”.
			]
			In kitten play, a person dresses to resemble and assumes the mannerisms and character of a kitten or cat, a characteristic of which is that it keeps some independence and, as part of the fantasy, might retaliate against the partner trying to tame/train them. Some might be trained to do tricks such as bring toys back, to beg, or go on walks. A "kitten" or "cat" that is unowned or ] may be called a "stray".<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.salon.com/2017/08/04/inside-the-colorado-mansion-where-the-kittens-of-bdsm-run-wild_partner/ \|title=Inside the Colorado Mansion where the kittens of BDSM run wild \|work=] \|first=Michael \|last=Stahl \|date=August 4, 2017 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622224155/https://www.salon.com/2017/08/04/inside-the-colorado-mansion-where-the-kittens-of-bdsm-run-wild_partner/ \|archive-date=June 22, 2020\|url-status=live}}</ref>

	==~~See~~ ~~also~~==		===Pup play===
			{{Main article\|Pup play}}
	{{MultiCol}}
			Pup play is a game where participants take on the persona of a dog or puppy. It can involve wearing dog-like accessories, such as hoods, mitts, and tails, and acting like a canine. This play can be done alone, with other pups, or with a handler, trainer, or master. It's especially popular in the ].
	*]
	*]
	*]
	*]

			===HuCow===
	{{ColBreak}}
			{{Main article\|HuCow}}
	*]
			HuCow participants broadly consider themselves as cows or farmers. The cow is usually ] and ] by the farmer. Scenes are often centered around the farmer milking the human cow's breasts. Human cows are often portrayed with large-sized breasts or pecs, as being able to ].
	*]
	*]
	*]

			==See also==
	{{EndMultiCol}}
			{{Portal\|Human sexuality}}
			{{colbegin}}
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			* ]
			{{colend}}

	==References==		==References==
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	==External links==		==External links==
			{{Commons category\|Petplay}}
	<!--========================({{No More Links}})============================
			*<!--========================({{No More Links}})============================
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	\| and link back to that category using the {{dmoz}} template. \|		\| and link back to that category using the {{dmoz}} template. \|
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			*
	*
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	{{BDSM}}		{{BDSM}}
	{{Paraphilia}}		{{Paraphilia}}

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	]		]
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Latest revision as of 21:44, 8 January 2025

Animal roleplay or petplay (erotic roleplay related to BDSM)

This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.
Find sources: "Animal roleplay" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (July 2024) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

Animal roleplay is a form of roleplay where at least one participant plays the part of a non-human animal. As with most forms of roleplay, its uses include play and psychodrama.

Animal roleplay may also be found in BDSM contexts, where an individual may take part in a dominant/submissive relationship by being treated as an animal. The activity is often referred to as petplay. However, not all types of animal roleplay within BDSM are petplay and not all petplay in BDSM involves roleplaying as an animal; some can be referred to as primal play.

Overview

The origins of animal roleplay and petplay are probably various and diverse, again depending upon the participants involved. However, its origins are certainly influenced by costuming, fiction, myth and legend, roleplay and psychodrama in their various aspects. Some of the earliest published images of animal play (especially pony play) are to be found in the work of John Willie, primarily in Bizarre magazine published from 1946 to 1959.

Some of the equipment that can be used in animal roleplay include leash, chain, bit gag, neck collar, bondage harness, catsuit, bodystocking, butt plug, muzzle, ballet boots, etc.

Cultural and ritual use

Other forms

Erotic scenarios

This section relies largely or entirely upon a single source. Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page. Please help improve this article by introducing citations to additional sources at this section. (January 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

Like much of erotic play and roleplay, animal roleplay in an erotic or relational context is entirely defined by the people involved and by their mood and interests at the time of play. It ranges from the simple imitation of a vocal "whinnying" of a horse to the barking, panting or playful nudging of a puppy, or playful behaviour of a kitten, to crawling around on all fours and being fed, or petted, by hand. To the greater extremes of dressing up as a pony in modified horse tack, masks, prosthetics and temporary bondage based body modification (such as binding the forearms to the upperarms and/or the calves to the thighs).

Public participation in human animal roleplay is varied. A couple could inconspicuously role-play a pet play scene in public, which would look to the casual observer like one partner is merely stroking the other's neck. In the case of some BDSM fetishists, one partner may wear a collar with a leash attached.

The reasons for playing such a character or animal can vary as much as the physical manifestations and intensity of the play. Some people enjoy being able to "cut loose" into a different, or more dynamic personality (see other variations). In some cases, pet play is seen as a loving, quiet cuddling time where there is no need for verbalizations and the simple act of stroking, rubbing and holding the other partner is satisfying or reassuring in and of itself for those involved. For others, there may be a spiritual side to it. Some feel closer to their animal totem, while others may identify with something akin to a deeper side or part of their own psyche (known as therianthropy). For still others, there is the experience of power exchange setup in a context or structure which they can accept.

Some cases could be considered a type of animal transformation fantasy. They can have strong elements of exhibitionism, be totally enjoyed in the privacy of the home, or lie somewhere between either boundary. While not widespread, erotic human-animal roleplay is still enjoyed by a sizable number of people. However, it is still primarily identified with BDSM practice. Though commonly misinterpreted as being associated with furry or other alternative lifestyle activities, that is generally not the case though some instances may exist.

For most participants, it has no connection whatsoever with bestiality, which is controversial and would usually be considered edgeplay in BDSM circles.

Other considerations

Each type of play can focus on a certain "strength" of an animal character. Pony play often involves the practice and training that a horse owner or trainer would put their horse through to learn how to walk, canter, etc., as modified for human limbs. Puppy and kitten play often can involve BDSM related discipline. Cow Play often involves fantasies of lactation and impregnation. The usual limits of safe, sane and consensual apply to roleplay as much as any other activity between humans who accept and respect their partner's interests and limits. For most, this does not include bestiality.

Just because one partner is playing the "pet" does not necessarily make them the passive or submissive play partner in the scene.

BDSM scenarios

Some people believe that they have certain animal 'instincts' and that they can let them out through animal roleplay. This is especially true in the BDSM communities, where some people 'live' as their chosen animal 24/7. This type of mentality goes beyond roleplay and becomes a full lifestyle for the parties involved. There are also 'hybrids'. These are humans who live part-time as one type of animal, and part-time as another. This is usually determined by the situation.

In the BDSM scene, people engage in animal roleplay to build stronger emotional connections. People develop deep emotional connections with their pets. Petplay, especially pup and kitten play seeks to create the same deep emotional connection between the owner/master and submissive/pet. The dom may demand unconditional love and obedience, but they may also train their pet to be more emotionally perceptive and empathic. This helps the sub feel safe and secure in the relationship.

Types of animal roleplay

The following section lists specific animal roleplay communities centered around a single type of animal.

Pony play

Pony play at Folsom Street Fair

Pony play is where at least one of the participants dresses to resemble and assumes the mannerisms and character of an equine animal. A documentary film Pony Passion was produced by British pony play club De Ferre in 2003 showing their club's activities and the 2005 documentary film, Born in a Barn, depicted the lives of several pony-play enthusiasts.

Pony play is sometimes referred to as "The Aristotelian Perversion" or "Aristotle’s Perversion", in reference to Phyllis and Aristotle, an apocryphal story where the philosopher Aristotle was persuaded to let a woman named Phyllis ride him like a horse, in promised exchange for sexual favors: an episode depicted in various woodcuts and other works of art.

Kitten play

In kitten play, a person dresses to resemble and assumes the mannerisms and character of a kitten or cat, a characteristic of which is that it keeps some independence and, as part of the fantasy, might retaliate against the partner trying to tame/train them. Some might be trained to do tricks such as bring toys back, to beg, or go on walks. A "kitten" or "cat" that is unowned or uncollared may be called a "stray".

Pup play

Main article: Pup play

Pup play is a game where participants take on the persona of a dog or puppy. It can involve wearing dog-like accessories, such as hoods, mitts, and tails, and acting like a canine. This play can be done alone, with other pups, or with a handler, trainer, or master. It's especially popular in the LGBTQ community.

HuCow

Main article: HuCow

HuCow participants broadly consider themselves as cows or farmers. The cow is usually submissive and objectified by the farmer. Scenes are often centered around the farmer milking the human cow's breasts. Human cows are often portrayed with large-sized breasts or pecs, as being able to lactate.

References

Taormino, Tristan (2012). "Chapter 12. A romp on the wild side: erotic human animal roleplaying". The ultimate guide to kink : BDSM, role play, and the erotic edge. Berkeley: Cleis Press. ISBN 9781573447829.
"Petplay: Training with Hypnosis and Meditation". June 24, 2019. Archived from the original on June 26, 2019. Retrieved June 26, 2019.
"Born in a Barn". IMDb.com. February 1, 2005. Archived from the original on February 9, 2017. Retrieved September 24, 2017.
Stahl, Michael (August 4, 2017). "Inside the Colorado Mansion where the kittens of BDSM run wild". Salon. Archived from the original on June 22, 2020.

External links

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Outline Glossary
Bondage and discipline B&D or B/D	Animal roleplay Bondage hood Bondage positions and methods Bondage suit Collar Equipment Erotic sexual denial Erotic tickling Forced orgasm Head bondage Hogtie bondage Human furniture In culture and media Interrogation scene Japanese bondage Law Metal bondage Mummification Organizations Positions Predicament bondage Rope bondage Self-bondage Sensation play Spreadeagle position Suspension bondage Total enclosure
Dominance and submission D&S or D/S	Ageplay Bladder desperation Body worship Boot worship Chastity Dominatrix Facesitting Fear play Female submission Feminization Male dominance Male submission Master/slave Medical fetishism Rape fantasy Forced seduction Service-oriented submission
Sadomasochism S&M or S/M	Breast torture Caning Cock and ball torture Erotic asphyxiation Erotic electrostimulation Erotic spanking Figging Impact play Knife play Play piercing Temperature play Urethral sounding Violet wand Wax play Erotic humiliation In fiction
Related topics	Aftercare Consent Dungeon monitor Edgeplay Edging Feminist views on BDSM Gorean subculture International Fetish Day Kink Leathermen Leather pride flag Limits Munch Pegging Play Play party Risk-aware consensual kink Safeword Sexual fetishism Sexual roleplay Top, bottom, switch
Writers	Laura Antoniou Pauline Réage Anne Rice Catherine Robbe-Grillet Leopold von Sacher-Masoch Ariel Sands
Commentators and theorists	Gloria Brame Patrick Califia Dossie Easton Janet Hardy Trevor Jacques Fakir Musafar Gayle Rubin
Organizations	Eulenspiegel Society FetLife Samois Society of Janus Universities with BDSM clubs
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Paraphilias

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See also
Other specified paraphilic disorder Erotic target location error Courtship disorder Polymorphous perversity Sexual fetishism Human sexual activity Perversion Sexology

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