Whether furred, feathered, scaled, or finned – pets hold a special place in our lives. They bring affection, fun, and joy to many households across the U.S.— and they can even help to boost our moods and reduce our stress.
National Pet Day provides the opportunity to learn about proper pet care and celebrate the many ways these loving animals enrich our lives.
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Choosing and Caring for a Pet
According to a recent report, 71 percent of pet owners worldwide think of their pets as family members – and that number is increasing. With so many types of pets to choose from to join your family, it’s important to select one that suits your lifestyle. Below are just a few examples of popular pets, their unique characteristics, and specific health care needs.
Dogs and Cats
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs and cats are the most common household pets in the U.S. (dogs win the popularity contest with 48 million households and cats come in second at 32 million). They both require regular check-ups with a general practitioner (GP) veterinarian. GP vets, also known as companion veterinarians, provide routine care such as vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, dental care, and annual check-ups. Some dogs and cats may require the services of a specialist such as a veterinary dermatologist for help with skin conditions, or an oncologist if cancer treatments are needed.
Reptiles
Reptiles are unique, fascinating, and low-maintenance pets. They can be an excellent choice for those living in smaller spaces. Reptiles are surprisingly popular, with 3.7 million households claiming them as family members.
Because reptiles are cold-blooded, they usually require a heat source, such as a heat lamp or pad, to maintain a healthy temperature range. They may also require UVB lighting to maintain calcium levels. In case of serious illness or injury, a reptile veterinarian may perform surgical procedures such as removing tumors, repairing broken bones, or removing eggs from a female reptile.
Birds
Birds can make wonderful companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They are quite popular, belonging to 2.8 million American households. They require a diet rich in nutrients, a cage large enough for them to move around and stretch their wings, and regular grooming to keep their feathers healthy and clean.
Pet birds can be prone to illnesses such as respiratory infections, feather plucking, and beak and feather disease. Avian veterinarians can provide preventative care and medical treatment for these illnesses, helping to ensure that pet birds live long and happy lives.
Rabbits
Rabbits, clocking in at 1.5 million households, are social animals that require specific environmental conditions to thrive. Their diets typically include hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of pellets. Most rabbits need a place to hide, toys to play with, and a litter box, as well as regular exercise to prevent obesity.
Rabbits have continuously growing teeth that can cause health problems if they become overgrown. Rabbit veterinarians can provide dental care, including trimming teeth to prevent dental problems.
Celebrating Pet Diversity
Whether they run, hop, crawl, or fly, pets bring immense joy and companionship to our lives. Pet owners have the responsibility of providing them with proper nutrition and medical care, as well as love and attention. So, in honor of National Pet Day, let’s celebrate the wonderful diversity of pets and commit to giving them the care and attention they deserve.
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