Exploring Owls and Animal Companions in the Potterverse

In the beloved world of Harry Potter, animal companions such as owls are often central to the magic and daily life of our young wizard. However, a curious question often arises: why do we not see any adult characters having owl or animal companions? In this exploration, we will uncover the mystery behind this phenomenon and delve into the unique characteristics of animal companions in the wizarding world.

Why Are There No Owls Among the Adults?

Much of the magic and mystery of the Potterverse lies in its text and canon. In the books, Harry is the central character, and the adventures of his friends and professors are not as frequently detailed. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that McGonagall, Flitwick, Sprout, Umbridge, and Fudge might have pets, but these pets are never mentioned in the canon as it is not necessary for the stories to revolve around them. Similarly, Sirius Black has never had the time to get a pet, as his life has been plagued with challenges, and even Remus Lupin is concerned about eating his potential pet in the enchanted world.

The Cases of Hogsmeade and Beyond

While owls and animal companions are somewhat scarce among adult characters, there are exceptions. Hagrid, the groundskeeper at Hogwarts, is known to have Fang, a loyal dog, as well as Buckbeak, a majestic hippogriff, and other hippogriffs and thestrals. The Malfoys, wealthy and influential characters, have peacocks as pets. Additionally, Mrs. Figg, one of the Dursleys' neighbors, is known to keep cats, which may serve as skilled witches for magical observations.

The Weasleys and Their Pet Community

The Weasley family, loyal and magical, is well-known for their love of animals. In a fan-drawn illustration of the Weasleys preparing for the start of the school year, a black shorthair cat can be seen. This cat is not Cortis, who is a ginger cat, and it is their pet. The Potters also had a cat, though it is not specified which one. The Weasleys also have an owl named Errol, and earlier in the series, they bought another owl named Hermes for Percy, their eldest son, who remained at home. Owls are a symbolic and practical extension of their magical lives, much like a computer for humans.

Dumbledore’s Famous Pet

It is also worth noting that Dumbledore, the wise and powerful headmaster of Hogwarts, has a pet phoenix named Fawkes. Phoenixes are known for their magical abilities, and Fawkes has proven to be a valuable asset to the school. The phoenix represents hope, healing, and wisdom, making it a fitting companion for Dumbledore.

The Case of Voldemort

Interestingly, even the malevolent and powerful Voldemort has his own pet, much to the surprise of many. The exact nature of this pet is not specified, but it is clear that having a companion, even in the darkest of times, can be a source of strength. This fact highlights the universality of the need for companionship, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Conclusion

The absence of owls and animal companions among adult characters in the Potterverse is a fascinating aspect of the series. However, as we have seen, there are exceptions and explanations. From the loyal Hagrid and his pack of creatures to the aristocratic Malfoys and their peacocks, the world of Harry Potter is full of surprises and rich in magical life. Owls and animal companions are more than just pets; they are an extension of the magical joys, challenges, and realities of life in the wizarding world.