Handy Data for a Responsible (Future) Pet Owner

We seldom think about numbers when we decide to provide a home for a pet. The line of thought usually runs along the line of “Do I have time for a pet?” or “What sort of a pet should I get?” 

Yet, other questions need to be asked and answered before committing to an often demanding role of a proud pet owner. Things like expenditures – food, vet bills, possible medication, vaccinations, and other paraphernalia that goes together with owning a pet. Do not trick yourself into thinking you will be reasonable because that pink doggy coat would look great on your darling girl (especially when it is nippy outside), and that cute rubber hamburger is just the toy your puppy needs, no matter the price tag. 

The infographic on pet statistics below will present a neat overview of facts and figures you ought to know beforehand, such as pet insurance costs and an overall estimate of expenses for dogs and cats. Such information is not trivial and has to be taken seriously by those intending to have a pet. More so when the rest of the data tells about the sad numbers of pets that eventually find themselves in shelters, either because of pet abandonment or because they were born in the streets and have never had a home in the first place. 

Additionally, it might be useful to learn some non-essential but interesting info, such as the one that Americans own more cats (2.0 per household) vs. dogs (1.49). Still, they are not particular when it comes to the gender of their canine friend since they own male and female dogs in equal numbers. 

The point is, whether you already have an animal in your home or might be toying with the idea of becoming a pet owner, gathering information is essential. There is a lot to consider cost-wise, training, dealing with pet hair, and so much more before you make the final decision.

Start here and make an informed decision because 6–8 million cats and dogs each year find themselves in one of 3,500 shelters in America for a variety of reasons, including jumping into pet ownership without the full understanding of what it entails.