Infrographic from the Infographic Showcase
Top 10 Most Popular U.S. Pets
Americans might disagree on some subjects, but when it comes to pets, there’s little to argue about. We love our non-human companions. About 63 percent of all U.S. households own a pet, according to the American Veterinary Association. Is it any surprise that economists say veterinary technicians are one of the hottest jobs to consider?
A recent study ranks dogs as an American’s best friend, landing the top spot of the most-owned pet list. Estimates range that we own between 52.5 million to 75 million canines. It costs the average owner between $30 to $2,000 to purchase your furry friend. $30 – $2,000 ranges from a shelter adoption fee to high end breeders.
At number two, cats feed our need for companionship. Americans own more cats, but most homes have more than two felines.
Birds are the third most-favored pet, followed by fish. But house pets aren’t the only animals we like to spend time with; horses reign at number 5; they’re owned by 2 percent of U.S. animal fanciers. Horse lovers spend between $250 and $2,000 to purchase him and even more a year for food, supplies and medical treatment, making equine care the most expensive of the top 10 pets.
It’s no surprise our love of animals has caught the attention of scientists. Research results so far are consistent: Our pets — even the tiny goldfish you feed and watch swim — provide stress relief. Other studies prove that spending time with pets not only lowers human blood pressure, but the animals’, as well. Nearly every experience with our companions triggers calming hormones. And in the case of dogs, our number one pet, it’s hard to ignore the fitness benefits they provide with those every-day walks.
The growing pet population has obviously spurred the growth of animal-related industries. Vet tech schools have become a hot choice for anyone looking for a steady and satisfying job. Techs don’t require the years of medical and scientific training necessary to become a veterinarian, yet the coursework is rigorous enough to satisfy a number of important roles. Vet tech colleges provide the knowledge necessary to assist pet doctors as a surgical nurses, lab technicians, radiology technicians, anesthetists and client educators.
Though the benefits of pet ownership can’t always be measured, unlike a week-long vacation, pets provide long-lasting love. Whether laughing at a hamster’s antics, or relaxing from a cat’s purring, Americans love their pets. As more people choose a career as a veterinary technician, we can be assured our companions will continue to live long and healthy lives.
Infrographic from the Infographic Showcase
All across the United States, legislation has been passed on certain breeds of domesticated animals creating breed specific laws. These “dog laws” can be anything from restrictions to outright bans of ownership. Some dog laws even go as far as stating that certain dog breeds are legally dangerous or vicious. The reasons for these laws vary, but they are almost always in response to well-publicized incidents.
