On Oct. 25, The New York Historical (formerly known as The New York Historical Society), located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, opened its newest exhibition titled “Pets and the City.” Curated by Roberta J.M. Olson, the exhibition explores the visual history of New Yorkers and their pets. The exhibition examines the history of pets and pet owners in New York City over the last 250 years, as well as related issues of pet adoption, the trafficking of exotic animals, animal rights laws and the role of service animals, according to The New York Historical’s website.
The exhibition features a collection of paintings, objects, photographs, film and television clips, and memorabilia. Each piece offers a glimpse into the evolution of the relationship between humans and animals and its cultural impact, against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding metropolis. The exhibition moves chronologically through time, first highlighting the importance of pets within early communities in the Americas, noting that pets were seen as essential to both early indigenous and settler populations in what would become the United States.
Moving into the 18th and 19th centuries, the exhibition displays various portraits featuring domesticated animals, including dogs, cats, sheep, deer and even a squirrel. Among those who could afford it, this practice became increasingly common globally, demonstrating the integration of pets into the family unit. As the city underwent rapid urbanization, pets kept New Yorkers connected to the natural world — their inclusion in family portraits signifying their newly established role as members of the family.
Each piece offers a glimpse into the evolution of the relationship between humans and animals and its cultural impact, against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding metropolis.
In 1866, the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was founded, largely in response to the horrific and inhumane treatment of cart and carriage horses, as well as dogs, the exhibition notes. The founding of the ASPCA marked the beginning of the animal rights movement in the United States, advocating for the humane treatment of horses and stray dogs, and eventually turtles, guinea pigs, and pigeons, as reformers argued that the treatment of animals was a measure of civilization.
“Pets and the City” also reviews the use of pets for commercial purposes, and within pop culture. As pets became increasingly popular and beloved within American households, businesses took full advantage of the opportunity to profit off of domesticated animals. Images of pets became commonplace on children’s board games, toys, and other consumer items, according to the exhibition. Pets also began to take the entertainment space by storm, with the introduction of dog and cat shows, and beloved cartoons like “Snoopy” and “Lady and the Tramp.”
The exhibition dedicates a section of the space to “Pets at Work: Working Animals and Heroes” honoring the long history of working animals, especially for their contributions during the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of 9/11. During World Wars I and II, carrier pigeons were used to deliver important messages, some even receiving medals for their bravery. It also honors the contributions of police dogs, service animals and therapy animals.
Pets have long served as a source of comfort for humans, especially during difficult times. As the exhibition notes, recent crises, most notably 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, have caused the pet population to increase drastically. Unfortunately, following the pandemic, as life went back to “normal” and inflation rose, many pandemic pets were returned or even abandoned, overwhelming and overpopulating animal shelters.
“Pets and the City” offers a captivating and multifaceted exploration of the enduring bond between New Yorkers and their animal companions — the good, the bad and the ugly. Through a thoughtful curation of historical artifacts, objects and art, the exhibition showcases the emotional, societal and practical roles pets continue to play in the lives of urban dwellers.
The exhibition is a colorful and engaging journey through time, examining the storied history of pet ownership in New York City, and the ways in which animals have and continue to shape our lives. As a pet owner, it is heartwarming to get to experience this beautifully detailed exhibition, dedicated to the adorable furry family members many are lucky enough to call our own.
You can view the “Pets and the City” exhibition at the New York Historical until April 20, 2025.