When it comes to the furry ones, Americans can’t get enough of them. Americans have always loved their pets, and in recent years that devotion has skyrocketed. In the 1970s, more than 67 million households owned pets. By 2012, that number reached 164 million! Today, there are more than 83 million dogs and 96 million cats in American households. Their owners collectively spend approximately $50 billion on them for supplies, food, toys, treats, brushes, and veterinary care. In fact, roughly two-thirds of pet owners have given “gifts” to their pets!
It’s clear that Americans love their pets and want the very best for them. Cats, dogs, fish, lizards, hamsters, and all sorts of creatures provide warmth and comfort — and unconditional love. They’re even good for your health. Studies have shown, for example, that a cat’s purr can be therapeutic to hear! You could say that cats are just purrfect.
Nothing is more important to a pet owner than pet wellness. Going to the vet is critically important. Vets recommend that pets under eight years old should go to the vet at least once a year. For pets older than that, twice a year. However, even a once-a-year checkup can be difficult to arrange for pet owners. Going to the vet can be a hassle, especially for owners with hectic schedules and for owners who aren’t near a vet. For those pet owners, online veterinary care is a novel option. Veterinary advice can be given over the phone or, better yet, a webcam. Most computers and smartphones nowadays come with a webcam, making virtual veterinarian services very much feasible for pet owners across the country. The Internet offers more and more services everyday that used to be exclusive to personal interactions. Now, even veterinary care can be done online!
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