Pets' role in well-being recognized at Pet Night on Capitol HillSeptember 11, 2018The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and the Pet Leadership Council (PLC) met with members of Congress for Pet Night on Capitol Hill to highlight the importance of pets to human health and well-being. During the event, leaders from the pet care community demonstrated their unity and commitment to increasing awareness of the health benefits of responsible pet ownership and displayed programs and legislative initiatives, including the Pet Care Trust, Pets Add Life, and the Pet and Women Safety Act Coalition to the public. More than 400 guests were given the chance to interact with registered Pet Partners therapy animals. "More than 85 million American households have at least one pet and a growing field of science demonstrates that life with a healthy pet is beneficial to all," said Bob Vetere, PLC and HABRI chairman. "Momentum is building toward a more pet-friendly society with 98 percent of Americans considering their pet to be an important part of the family." The pet care community supports bipartisan legislation that increases accessibility to pets, including measures to provide service dogs to veterans with post-traumatic stress, and that helps survivors of domestic violence find safe shelter with …
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AHI studies economic, social contributions of animal health industryMarch 15, 2018The Animal Health Institute has released its findings from a first-of-its-kind study into the economic and social contributions of the animal health industry, which also covers household pets. The report examines the role the companies that produce pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and flea and tick products play in the U.S. economy and beyond. Key report findings include: Household Pets – More than 67 percent of American households, or 84.6 million, own nearly 400 million companion animals. This includes dogs, cats, horses, birds, fish, horses, and more. Pets by Type – Nearly half of pet-owning households include a dog while over one-third own a cat, for a total of 89.7 million dogs and 94.2 million cats. There are between 100,000 and 200,000 service animals, including those who assist the blind and disabled (but not including police, forensic, or military dogs). Almost all—95 percent—of dog and cat owners view their pets as members of their family. Spending on Pets – Americans spent more than $75.5 billion on their pets in 2016, with an average total household spend of $892 on pet food, veterinary services, supplies, and other services. As pet owners look for solutions to increase the length and quality of life for …
