Childfree by Choice, but Treating Pets Like Kids—Why?

Here’s my question: I often see people proudly declaring their decision to remain childfree, citing reasons like wanting more freedom or avoiding financial burdens. Yet, they end up getting dogs, fully anthropomorphizing them and expecting others to refer to them as “dog moms” or “dog dads.” They treat their pets like children and even limit their own freedom to travel or make other lifestyle choices because of these animals. I just don’t understand why.