According to Latest Studies – Pet Ownership Rising
There is a significant rise in pet ownership across the US. Dogs make up the highest percentage of pets while huge gains are being seen across less conventional pets such as lizards and poultry. These results were showcased in after recent studies into pet ownership by the AVMA. The comprehensive AVMA report is a critical source of data for pet practices and also for driving conversations regarding the essential need for veterinarians in the country.
The Pet Ownership Numbers in Detail
The numbers show that nearly 57% of all American households owned pets in 2016, with cats and dogs being the most common choices of pets. Most significantly, the dog ownership rate was at its highest level ever since the first AVMA study in 1982. Dogs accounted for 38% of the pets in households across the nation, while cats followed closely behind at 25%.
The data also shows that other exotic kinds of pets were becoming more popular in the country. More households now own specialty pets like rabbits, gerbils, ferrets, fish, snakes, livestock, poultry, lizards, guinea pigs, hamsters, and others. Over 13% of America households had an exotic pet in 2016, representing a significant 25% rise from 2011. Furthermore, poultry pet ownership climbed by 23% over the last five years.
Which States Had the Most Pets?
The ownership of pets was found to be highest in predominantly rural states, while urban states had the least percentages. The top ten states with a high rate of American households with pets were the following:
- 65%: Colorado
- 65%: Oklahoma
- 65: Mississippi
- 69%: Arkansas
- 69%: Indiana
- 70%: Idaho
- 70%: Vermont
- 70%: Nebraska
- 71%: West Virginia
- 72%: Wyoming
Which States Had the Least Pets?
Here are the ten states that had the least percentage of households that owned pets:
- 52%: New Hampshire
- 51%: Georgia
- 50%: Connecticut
- 50%: New York
- 49%: Massachusetts
- 49%: Illinois
- 49%: Maryland
- 47%: New Jersey
- 46%: South Dakota
- 45%: Rhode Island
Data about Veterinarian Visits
The AVMA report also considers veterinarian visits, their occurrences, and critical circumstances. The survey results showed that those who owned dogs were the most likely people to get veterinary assistance as compared to other pet owners. In 2016, an average of three visits was made by dog-owning clients whereas cat owners came behind with 2.4 trips.
Conclusion
As mentioned earlier, this AVMA report is an informative and fascinating document that showcases the pet ownership sector in the country. By examining and evaluating these trends, veterinarians and pet owners can be able to safeguard the welfare and health of all pets.
References: AVMA, Pet Product News
Copyright: Local Value
