In this country, it seems we study just about everything. 2019 was no exception, and there was no shortage of research looking into how we interact with our pets.
From technology to food, experts are learning more about how pet owners treat their dogs (and cats). We thought we could pass along some fun dog statistics to close out your year. Do you fall into any of these categories as a Sarasota dog owner?
Dog Statistics & Quick Facts
Smart Dogs: Humans are not alone in our use of “smart” technology. In fact, our dogs’ lives are being affected more every day. For instance, 56% of pet parents report that they use some form of technology in their pets care. The most popular of these by far is microchipping technology, which is used by 60% of owners, while 22% use additional tracking tools over and above the microchip. Popular mobile apps include health and nutrition apps (24%), pet monitoring cameras (22%), and smart toys(20%). These owners report that these technologies and others have given them peace of mind, knowing that they are enhancing their pets’ health and safety.
Pampered Pets: 68% of pet owners have admitted to using alternative treatments for medical or behavioral issues. These include 26% who have utilized massage, physical therapy, acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Perhaps the fastest growing trend involves the use of CBD and hemp products. These dog statistics include 45% who give CBD or hemp for general overall health, especially for older dogs; and 39% who use the products for a specific condition or situation (such as keeping dogs calmer during a drive or thunder storm.)
Healthier Diets: As we learn more about the relationship between specific diets and our overall health, the science is being applied more and more to our pets. Of the 45% of dog owners who reported that they themselves we on a special diet, 70% said that they also put their pet on a special diet. Nearly half of those owners who eat organic food also give their pets organic pet food. 45% of those who eat high protein diets give their pets high protein diets as well. And 40% of those who have food delivered as part of a subscription service have also subscribed to a service for their dog or cat.
Buying vs. Adopting: While there are over 83 million dogs in homes across the United States at any given time, there are over 70 million dogs annually who are in need of adoption. Unfortunately, of all the dogs brought into homes each year, only 28% are adopted from shelters, despite all of the awareness campaigns. Nearly 4 million dogs enter shelters annually, and only 1.4 million of them are adopted. Shelters are overcrowded and often must necessarily euthanize some of the animals considered “unlikely to be adopted” due to age or behavioral issues.
How Can You Help?
If you are a dog lover and are considering adding a new member to the family, please visit your local Humane Society or shelter. There are hundreds of loving, beautiful animals in need of a home – and perhaps a massage!
Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training is committed to the health and well-bring of every Sarasota dog. We understand that training and obedience are among the best methods to keeping your dog happy and well-adjusted. So feed him a special diet, buy him a smart camera – and enroll him in one of our obedience classes. We look forward to a wonderful year with all of our canine friends.
