Buenos Aires' Deputy Mayor Clara Muzzio highlighted the city's increasing dog population as a pressing urban issue, following a report by the local Institute of Statistics and Censuses (Idecba). The rise in dog ownership corresponds with a declining birth rate, as families are opting for fewer children at older ages, leading to a surge in pet ownership and a trend toward ‘humanizing’ pets. This phenomenon reflects a broader shift in urban lifestyles where dogs are seen not just as pets but as family members.

In response to this growing bond between humans and pets, numerous youth collectives have begun adopting playful behaviors that mimic animals, a trend referred to as 'animalization.' This movement sees young people adopting costumes and acting in ways that resemble animal traits, such as crawling, barking, or meowing, and has sparked interest on social media. Videos of these gatherings showcase participants engaging in these performances in public spaces, pointing to a cultural trend where the lines between humans and animals blur.

This playful engagement raises questions about societal perceptions of animals and the evolving role they play in people's lives. As urban areas continue to grow, the relationship between humans and their pets is increasingly characterized by emotional attachment and anthropomorphism, prompting discussions about responsible pet ownership and the implications of urban policies in dealing with pet populations. The phenomenon illustrates how modern urban life is reshaping identities and interactions within the community, driven by a blend of affection for pets and the need for companionship amidst changing family dynamics.