SECRET LIVES OF PETS

If there is no furry, feathered or flippered creature greeting you when you get home at the end of the day, you're in a minority. 62% of all Americans own at least one pet, and the number is even higher among young adults with 65% of Millennials and 71% of Gen Xers owning a pet, according to a Harris Poll. But what is even more interesting is how we treat our pets. Basically, all of us (95%) consider our pets to be members of the family and our behaviors prove this to be true:

• 71% allow their dog or cat to sleep with them.
• 64% buy their pets holiday gifts.
• 45% buy birthday presents for their pets.
• 31% cook especially for their pets.
• 22% dress their pet in some type of clothing.
• 12% bring their pet to work with them.

Who's the top dog? Among pet owners:

• 71% have at least one dog.
• 49% have at least one cat.
• 11% have fish.
• 9% have some other type of pet than a dog, cat, fish or bird.
• 8% have a bird.

How much do we spend on our pets annually?

• Food and treats: $476
• Medical costs: $425
• Pet sitting/boarding: $128
• Pet equipment: $97
• Toys: $63