What's the difference between calling oneself the owner of one's animal companion or the guardian of him or her? Owner implies that the animal is property, while guardian recognizes the animal as an individual for whom one is responsible for. This distinction is the foundation of In Defense of Animals' Guardian Campaign, which "strives to bring about a more just, humane world by modeling responsible, caring and respectful language and behavior toward the animals and people we encounter at home, in school and our community" (from the website).

Supporters of the campaign take the "Guardian Promise": ten ways that they will take responsibility for the well-being of their own and other animal companions and not treat them as property, reduce "pet" overpopulation, and encourage others to do the same. For information on how to help the campaign grow, see the Guardian Campaign's Take Action page. Individuals, organizations and businesses can also register their support for the campaign by become an official campaign friend here.