PETS LB86F31 USA

Assignment: What Happiness Means To Me

Happiness to me is best depicted in the two pictures I have taken of Rufus and Chelsea. In keeping with the definition of experiential consumption, I happily consume the experiences I have with Rufus and Chelsea on a daily basis. I also reflect upon the past experiences I have had with them from the time they were puppies until the present. Coupled with the experiential consumption I enjoy from my experiences with Rufus and Chelsea are the emotional and psychological feelings I have for them....

I am consistently and constantly consuming on their behalf. My purchases for them include pet food, toys, bedding, veterinarian bills, and even a babysitter for while I am away on vacation. My consumption pattern for Rufus and Chelsea can be extended to the purchase of figurines, books, pictures, calendars, tee shirts, and even Christmas ornaments that depict Boston Terriers and Pugs. This is not to say that my entire dwelling is consumed with their images but they are certainly represented. I have also had an artist render portraits of each dog which are proudly hung in golden ornate frames with brass name plaques declaring Lord Rufus and Lady Chelsea. Recently, I traveled to a Bed and Breakfast in South Carolina that specifically allowed Rufus and Chelsea to accompany me.

Since our relationship is one based upon mutual love and affection, it is hard for me to consider myself as a consumer and the dogs as a product. Perhaps it is the other way around, and the dogs have consumed me. I have become just as dependent upon them as they have on me. As a consumer, they would be an impossible product to replace.