Who or which?

[irmamar]

I'm talking about my dog and I need a relative, but I don't like use "which" in this case. May I use "who" or it is just for people?

Thank you.

[wrholt]

It probably depends on the specific context. In general, "who" is used when referring to people or to personified beings, and "which" is used otherwise. (However, often "that" can replace both "who" or "which.)

Sometimes pets count as personified beings, and sometimes they don't. If you can give us a specific example where you aren't happy with using "which", perhaps someone can give you better guidance.

[irmamar]

I'm talking about a cream that I'm preparing for my dog, who/which has anal fistulas.

[Rusty]

who (first choice for a personified pet)
that
which

We wouldn't just call that a 'cream', by the way. Based on consistency and usage, 'creams' are called lotions, preparations, ointments and creams (but usually with an adjective or adjunct that describes the type of cream).
Your preparation is a topical cream/ointment/preparation for treating anal fistulas.

[irmamar]

Thank you, Rusty.

I think I'm going to say 'moisturizing cream suitable for anal fistulas', since it has several uses.

[Rusty]

Works for me. You're welcome.

[Perikles]

Originally Posted by Rusty

Works for me.

Grammatically or medicinally?

[Rusty]

Grammatically.

[irmamar]

Perikles, you are able to depress anybody...

What's wrong medicinally? Or maybe you don't believe in alternative medicine?

Well, if it works grammatically, that's enough for me.

Thank you everybody.