Death’S A Risk Owners Face
Would you be willing to risk your own life to save your pet’s?
Probably, if the American Animal Hospital Association’s 1998 Pet Owner Survey is any indication.
Half of the 1,252 pet owners polled in the United States and Canada said they would be very likely to do so, while another third would be somewhat likely.
On the other hand, only 57 percent said they would expect their pet to rescue them if they were in distress (with the other 43 percent presumably being cat owners).
If their pet had a life-threatening medical condition, 59 percent would be willing to spend $1,000 or more on treatment, including 38 percent who would put up any amount.
Among the other findings:
Most (89 percent) of the people polled believe their pet understands some or all of what they say - despite (or maybe because of) the fact that 76 percent use a different voice when talking to their critters.
About one in four (27 percent) admits to spending more “quality time” with their pets than with friends and family.
Seven percent of all pet owners, including 11 percent of cat owners, say they ended a personal or romantic relationship because of their pet.
* Double exposure: Cat quips aside, we realize felines are so lovable that many people feel compelled to own more than one. In fact, according to the AAHA survey, two-thirds of cat owners have at least two, with 12 percent reporting they have five or more.
The Tidy Cats “Call for the Perfect Feline Friends” photo and essay contest seeks kitty companions who have their own unique personalities but also share a special relationship.
Grand prize is a trip for two to New York City to see a Broadway musical, an in-home consultation with a pet behavioral specialist, a $250 photography gift package and a lifetime supply of cat litter.
Entry deadline is Jan. 31. For contest rules, call (800) 681-6963 or visit www.tidycats.com.
* Toll-free dumber: Among the questions asked by callers to the Iams Pet Professionals pet-care hotline, (800) 863-4267, this year:
“How can I keep my cat from stealing my husband’s toothbrush?”
“What should I feed a borderline collie?”
“How do I stop my cat from giving food to the dog?”
“Will chewing pop cans remove enamel from my puppy’s teeth?”
“I have a neutered male cat. How old should he be before I can breed him?”
“My cat just came in from the garage and I was wondering…how many calories are in a mouse?”