A Pawfect Life: Dion Chang’s Hilarious Guide to Modern Pet Parenting

Pets have officially taken over our homes, our calendars, and in many cases, our wallets — and Dion Chang’s A Pawfect Life takes a hilarious look at how we got here. Whether you’re a devoted dog mum, a proud cat butler, or simply fascinated by the cultural shifts shaping how we live, this book offers a warm, witty and eye-opening look at our paw-obsessed world. Here’s what you need to know.

Dion Chang A Pawfect Life book | What's on in Joburg

What is “A Pawfect Life” about?

A Pawfect Life takes readers deep into the delightfully chaotic universe of contemporary pet ownership, where dogs have Instagram agents, cats hold emotional veto power, and “pawternity leave” is a legitimate workplace request.

Dion Chang unpacks the many ways our relationships with our animals have transformed — from planning pet-friendly holidays and booking seats on Bark Air, to choosing CBD treats for anxious dachshunds and hosting full-blown “birthday pawties”.

But this isn’t just a playful look at pampered pups and spoiled moggies. Chang also highlights the more complex realities of pet parenting. In conversation with animal behaviour expert Leigh Shenker, he examines why we spend so much on our furry companions, and whether treating them like tiny humans helps or hinders their wellbeing. As a trained pet doula, Chang offers thoughtful insight into the difficult journey of pet loss and grief, helping readers navigate those tender moments of saying goodbye.

Equal parts insightful, humorous and disarmingly honest, A Pawfect Life will make you laugh, rethink who really runs your household, and finally understand how to navigate an airport pet-relief zone or one of the various venues in Johannesburg like an experienced traveller.

Meet the Author: Dion Chang, Trend Analyst, Futurist… and devoted cat butler

Dion Chang is one of South Africa’s most respected trend analysts and the founder of Flux Trends. With a background in fashion media as an editor, columnist and spokesperson, he has built a career helping major brands understand and adapt to change. He has authored four trend-focused books, including The Future: More than 80 Key Trends for South Africa (2024).

Yet beyond forecasting the future, Chang’s compassionate work as a trained end-of-life companion doula — specialising in pet bereavement — reveals his deep understanding of the emotional ties between humans and their animals.