The pet play lifestyle is full of so many voices that make it unique and vibrant. To showcase this, every month we will be shining the spotlight on a particular human animal or Handler in our community. Let's hear what makes every pet player special! We're ringing in October with one of our favorite archetypes of the spooky season... black cats! Well, in this case, a Bi Domina Black Panther and pet play artist with powerful views to share. Introducing...
PANTHY!
Please introduce yourself, your pronouns, and how you identify in pet play.
Hi, everyone! The name's Panthy. My pronouns are She/They. I identify as a Large cat in the Pet play community. To be specific, a Black Panther - hence my name. I am a Bi Domina who loves interacting and meeting members of diverse community.
What is your local pet play scene like in your experience? Are there any events you would recommend?
From what I have experienced from my chosen pet play family and the other experiences I have had is nothing but acceptance. From experiencing pet play meet ups and panels at conventions, there’s a lot that can be learned and a lot of good people to learn from. I haven’t been to many events, but when the world becomes safer, I’d love to travel to different states to experience events and meet kinksters in different parts [of the country.]
How did you discover your pet identity, and what does it mean to you?
I have always had a thing for anything feline. Growing up, my childhood nickname was "Alleycat," so cats hold a special place in my heart. I can describe my personality as cat-like at times.
What is it like for you to be a Dominant Animal?
For me, being a Dominant Animal is not the act of dominating over the other, but more of a independence/leadership situation. I love giving direction and helping others achieve their goals. I will say it is instinctual for me to want to take charge.
How, if at all, do your intersections of identity influence your pet play?
I would definitely say the caring and nurturing sides of me influence my pet play. To be a Domina means so many things to me as far as being a natural born leader and independent solo cat. When I’m in packs, I tend to want to protect and guard my kin. I can be very territorial and that stems from me being very protective of those I care about.
What inspired you to start creating animal play art?
What inspired me to start creating pet play art was the lack of representation art-wise. I started Wearepetplay to give kinksters another go-to artist who can create cute art pieces that represent what they are about. Check out WeArePetPlay on Instagram!
In the near future, how do you most hope to see the pet play community grow as a whole?
I feel the pet play community has been growing slowly but surely since I become a member. Every day, I’m seeing more and more beautiful people emerging - coming out and living in their truth. I hope to see more kinksters join the community and those who have been here continue to lend a helping hand as we’ll continue to create a warm and welcoming environment for everyone.
What do you love most about pet play?
What I love the most about pet play is I can be myself without any judgement. I can be anything and everything I want. If I want to be cat today, ok! If I feel like fox tomorrow, that’s ok too. I love that is a way I can express myself and feel completely free as I experience different headspaces and meet so many good peeps.
Keep up with this fabulous feline on Instagram! @pantherpanthy