"Dogs are kissing, tail-wagging, life-affirming healers."
--Allen and Linda Anderson, Angel Dogs: Divine Messengers of Love, p. 129

Statistics on Number of Pets

From American Pet Product Manufacturer’s Association (APPMA) 2007-08 Pet Owner’s Survey:

63% of U.S. households, 71 million homes, have at least one pet compared to 56% in 1988.

Number of U.S. Households that Own a Pet (millions)

Bird                               6.4

Cat                              38.4

Dog                             44.8

Equine                           4.3

Freshwater Fish           14.2

Saltwater Fish                  .8

Reptile                           4.8

Small Animal                  6.0

Total Number of Pets Owned in the U.S. (millions)

Bird                              16.0

Cat                               88.3

Dog                              74.8

Equine                          13.8

Freshwater Fish           142.0

Saltwater Fish                 9.6

Reptile                           13.4

Small Animal                  24.3

Note: There are more homes that have dogs, but overall more homes have cats. For a majority of people who have a cat, they have more then one.

Statistics on Spending for Pet Companions

From Business Week, “The Pet Economy” (August 6, 2007)

Americans spend $41 billion a year on pets, double the amount spent only ten years ago. Spending is expected to be 52 billion in two years. (Packaged Facts Consumer Research)

Americans spend more on pets than on movies, video games, and recorded music combined.

People spend thousands on pet drugs and medication for depression, anxiety, cancer, cosmetic procedures, end-of-life care. “Americans now spend $9.8 billion a year on vet services. That doesn't include the over-the-counter drugs and other supplies, which add $9.9 billion in costs.”

After consumer electronics, the fastest growing retail industry is pet care.

How Americans Express Their
Love for Animals

From APPMA Survey:

42% of dogs now sleep in the same bed as their owners, up from 34% in 1998.

Half of all people with dogs say they consider their pet's comfort when buying a car.

Almost a third of people buy gifts for their dogs' birthdays.

Mario DiFante staged New York's first Pet Fashion Week in August 2007.

Along with doggie spas, there are mobile pet-grooming vans, pedicure services, professional dog walkers, and massage therapy for animals.

Animal grief counselors help families cope with the demise of beloved pets.

More than 60% of new customers of Banfield’s Pet Hospital chain, which has more than 600 locations nationwide, enroll their pets in wellness plans. 1% of people have pet insurance; the number is growing by double digits each year.

Several hotel chains have new pet-friendly policies: oversized pet pillows, plush doggie robes, check-in gift packages that include a pet toy, dog treat, ID tag, bone, and turn-down treat. Some even have a licensed dog masseuse on staff.

Items for pets include faux mink coats, feathered French day beds for afternoon naps, designer birdcages, botanical fragrances, and a rhinestone tiara.

How Pets Help People

From APPMA Website:

Pets Help to Lower Blood Pressure

A recent study at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that people with hypertension who adopted a cat or dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a pet. (Dr. Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo)

Pets Help to Reduce Stress

Walking with a pet helps to sooth nerves and offers instant relaxation. Studies conducted worldwide have shown that the impact of a stressful situation is lesser on pet owners, especially males, than on those who do not own a pet. (Josephine M. Wills, Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, United Kingdom)

Pets Help to Prevent Heart Disease

Because pets provide people with faithful companionship, research shows they may also provide greater psychological stability, a measure of protection from heart disease. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets)

Pets Help to Lower Health Care Costs

People with pets make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical conditions. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets)

Pets Help to Fight Depression

Pets help fight depression and loneliness, promoting an interest in life. When seniors face adversity or trauma, affection from pets takes on great meaning. Their bonding behavior can foster a sense of security. (Between Pets and People: The Importance of Animal Companionship)