Quck answer
Pet stores are afraid of the word ‘penis’ because it can be misinterpreted by customers and lead to complaints or even legal action. This is especially true when it comes to selling products for male dogs, such as penis-shaped chew toys or supplements for prostate health. Some stores have opted to use more neutral terms, such as ‘male anatomy’ or ‘reproductive organs’, to avoid any potential offense or confusion. However, others argue that using anatomically correct language is important for pet owners to properly care for their animals. Ultimately, the decision on which terminology to use lies with individual stores and their customers.
When browsing through a pet store, you may come across a chew toy made from a bull’s dried penis, but it is unlikely to be labeled as such. Instead, it is typically called a “bully stick” or “pizzle,” which originates from the Low German word for penis, “pesel.” Although some pet owners may be aware of this, many are not. Why do pet stores avoid using the term “penis” for these chews?
After a bull is processed for its meat, the penis can be repurposed for other uses, such as dog chews. The process involves removing and cleaning the penis, then hanging it vertically to drain and stretching and twisting it as it dries. Sometimes, it undergoes a curing and smoking process before being cut into dog-appropriate pieces.
A study conducted by Tufts University and the University of Guelph revealed that only 44 percent of surveyed dog owners knew that bully sticks were made from bull penises. Surprisingly, 38 percent of veterinarians polled in the survey were also unaware of this fact.
While pet stores openly sell other animal parts with anatomically correct labeling, such as chicken gizzards, pig ears and snouts, and lamb esophaguses, they tend to avoid using the term “penis” due to a sense of modesty in American culture. According to marketing expert Emmelie De La Cruz, being vague in marketing and packaging helps companies establish a positive association with their product and increase sales.
At the Atlanta shop Star Provisions, there are dog chews on display, but they are not afraid to call a penis a penis. However, when offering your furry friend a bull penis to chew on, it may be wise to exercise caution. Researchers from Tufts University found that out of 26 bully sticks, several were contaminated. Seven bully sticks contained E. coli bacteria, and one bully stick contained Clostridium difficile bacteria, which can cause fatal colon inflammation. Additionally, a bull penis chew toy was found to be contaminated with MRSA, a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to most antibiotics.
Tufts researchers also found that bully sticks are high in calories, ranging from 9 to 22 calories per inch. Eating just one six-inch bully stick could equal 30 percent of the recommended daily caloric intake for small dogs (up to 10 pounds or 4.5 kilograms). For larger dogs (50 pounds or 22 kilograms), a bully stick would account for about 9 percent of the recommended daily calories. “With obesity in pets on the rise, it is important for pet owners to factor in not only their dog’s food, but also treats,” says researcher Lisa Freeman, a professor of nutrition at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. The study was published in the January 2013 issue of the Canadian Veterinary Journal.
Now That’s Interesting: Between 2006 and 2008, an outbreak of salmonella that affected 79 people, primarily children, was traced to contaminated dry pet food.
FAQ
1. Why are pet stores afraid of the word ‘penis’?
Pet stores are afraid of using the word ‘penis’ because they fear it will offend customers. The word is commonly associated with a vulgar or crude meaning, and pet store owners do not want to risk offending their customers by using it in a seemingly inappropriate context. Additionally, there are concerns that using the word may attract unwanted attention from individuals who may not have the best intentions towards animals.
2. Is there a more appropriate term that pet stores can use instead of ‘penis’?
Yes, there are several more appropriate terms that pet stores can use instead of ‘penis’. For example, ‘male genitalia’, ‘reproductive organ’, or ‘private parts’ are all acceptable alternatives that can convey the same meaning without risking offense. Additionally, pet stores can choose to simply avoid using the term altogether and instead refer to the anatomy in a more generic way, such as ‘male anatomy’.
3. Do pet stores face any legal consequences for using the word ‘penis’?
No, pet stores do not face any legal consequences for using the word ‘penis’. However, they may face negative consequences in the form of customer complaints or negative publicity. It is important for pet stores to consider the potential impact of their language and choose their words carefully to avoid any unintended consequences.
4. Are there any exceptions to pet stores avoiding the word ‘penis’?
There may be certain situations where pet stores are required to use the word ‘penis’, such as when discussing medical conditions or procedures. In these cases, it is important for pet stores to be clear and professional in their language, and to provide appropriate context for the use of the term. However, outside of these specific contexts, it is generally best for pet stores to avoid using the word to prevent any potential offense or confusion.
5. How can pet stores navigate the challenge of discussing sensitive anatomy with customers?
Pet stores can navigate the challenge of discussing sensitive anatomy with customers by approaching the topic in a professional and sensitive manner. This may involve using appropriate terminology, providing context for the discussion, and ensuring that customers feel comfortable and respected throughout the conversation. Additionally, pet stores can provide resources such as books or articles that can help customers better understand the anatomy and health of their pets, without relying on potentially offensive or confusing language.
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