Pets have a special position in the U.S. and more than 60% of all households have either a dog or a cat. Just how much Americans love their pets shows the following statistic:
- 84% refer to themselves as their pet's "Mom" or "Dad". - 72% first greet their pet when returning home. Only 13% first greet their spouse or significant other, and, only 7% first greet their children. - 63% celebrate their pet's birthday, 43% give their pet a wrapped gift. - 87% include their pet in holiday celebrations, Christmas being the most important. - 65% have sung or danced with their pet. - 44% of pet owners have taken their pet to work. - 52% have cooked for their pet. - More than 50% of pet owners have taken time off from work to care for their sick pet. Exemplary, considering that time taken off is either unpaid or vacation time. - 92% say, that vaccinations and routine care are critical to their pet's quality of life. - More than 60% frequent their vet more than their own doctor. - 84% say, that pets make their family or home life healthier, either emotionally or physically. - 70% say, that pets have a relaxing and calming effect and that pets help them cope with stress.
In Los Angeles, the city where distrust and disloyalty dominate, the dog often becomes the faithful and reliable partner and buddy. It therefore doesn't come as a surprise, that many dogs are the mirror image of their owners. But unfortunately there are still hundreds of pets being abandoned or mistreated every day. The following links should help support adequate and responsible pet ownership and we hope this information will encourage current and future pet owners to give their pet a good home and the best possible care.
Basically you should - take your pet to the vet for routine check-ups and vaccinations regularly - carefully choose the food - never let animals in the car (danger of heat stroke) - be familiar with First Aid - be prepared for earthquakes, fire or floodings (food, water, carrier or leash, |