My dogs are companions , pets, members of my family, the get treated as dogs, but also my babies , because I love em

I dont see the term 'pet' to be negative. I dont think or treat my dogs like they are kids - but they are part of my family and companions - thats what I see a pet as

I'm with J&C on this I think.

They are definitely not my children because I dont like children, and they are not family members.

They are my walking companions and dog sport companions but since I spend alot of time apart from them in the house, I guess they arent my true companions.
I dont have a problem with the word 'pets' because that is what they are.

I don't think I have ever really thought of mine as pets, they are members of our family my Great Niece refers to them as her cousins lol

We consult them on quite a few decisions. Cars have to be Mollie's choice as she only likes traveling in certain vehicles.
Duncan is fussy about dishes he will eat out so he gets to choose new dishes.

We never had live children of our own so they have become our children in a way. Certainly more than pets to us.

Companions is a better word for us.

The way I think of it, my hamsters are pets. My dogs are more my companions. I do consider them members of the family and all the rest.

I feel the same way, right down to the hamster bit!