Are you worried about your pet’s health? Do you know when you should be buying them simple medication and when you should take them to an emergency vet? This push and pull of responsibility and pragmatism can be difficult, but it’s the key to cultivating a healthy and happy long-term relationship with your furry friend. If you’re thinking of owning a pet or simply want to learn a little more about what your puppy or kitten might be facing in the coming months, read on to learn more about emergency vet services, general health and even the mental wellness a pet can bring to your everyday life.
How Popular Are Dogs?
As you can already see in the day-to-day, dogs are an incredibly popular addition to families across the country. From Golden Retrievers to perk Jack Russell Terriers, it seems there’s no end to diverse dog breeds fitting all manners of lifestyles. The average yearly cost of owning a dog is around $1,135, with an impressive 46 million households owning at least one dog in the United States. Emergency vet services are a widespread industry as a result and see thousands of owners visiting every month.
How Popular Are Cats?
Not everyone is interested in owning a dog, however, and choose to circumvent one in favor of a cat. Felines are quite popular for their easy maintenance, independence and, of course, good humor and companionship. The average yearly cost of owning a cat is considerably lesser due to their smaller size and self-maintenance, frequently not exceeding more than $800. Nearly 39 million households own at least one cat, making them the second most popular pet by a landslide.
How Common Are Strays?
Unfortunately, stray animals are very common in the United States. According to the Humane Society, there are nearly 70 million feral and stray cats and dogs roaming the streets and open roads. Eight million to 10 million pets will end up in American shelters every year, with common reasons being a lack of upkeep, an encroaching disease or lack of compatibility with new family members or pets.
What Are Common Diseases?
There are a wide variety of small to severe illnesses that can make your cat or dog sick. While not all of these require a trip to the emergency vet, it never hurts to be careful. Periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition occurring in both adult dogs and cats, that of which can crop up by the time they’re both three years of age. Heartworm is another common issue, one that can potentially be fatal if left untreated. Thankfully, modern medication can easily knock out this disease in a matter of weeks.
How Do Pets Encourage Better Emotional Health?
One of the best things about owning a pet is the joy they bring to everyday life. One particular study involving over 217 community members saw pet owners showing greater self-esteem as well as physical fitness and mental wellness compared to their peers without pets — some even admitted to being more outgoing and less lonely. If you’ve found you could use more companionship, a dog or a cat might be your next best friend.
How Do I Take Good Care Of My Pet?
Whether you own a cat or a dog, it’s essential to create a healthy, regular relationship with your nearby veterinary clinic. Cat and dog owners reported that the top five services or products provided at the average animal hospital were physical examinations, vaccinations, common medications, laboratory tests and flea products. However, nearly 20% of cat owners and over 30% of dog owners who didn’t regularly visit a veterinarian said they could not afford it. Remember that owning a pet is a responsibility that requires you use every resource at your disposal to ensure a long and happy life for your cat or dog.