Benefits December 2, 2002

"Dog Days" May Be Keys To Better Health

December 2, 2002 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Ninety-seven percent of pet owners say their pet makes them smile at least once a day, leading owners to say their pets are a prescription to better health, according to a survey by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).

Reported by

Eric Hazard

The survey of 1,242 pet owners in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico found 92% of pet owners indicate their pets have joined diet and exercise as keys to better health. Among the benefits that pets provide, owners report pets helping to relieve stress levels (76%) and improve mental health (65%).

Apparently, pets know when the extra care is needed, as 85% believe their pet shows concern when they are sick.

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The owners are reciprocating the care, with 93% of owners reporting that they take their pet to the veterinarian for regular checkups. Additionally, 73% would spend $1,000 or more to save a pet’s life and 48% have taken up to two days off work to be with a sick pet.

Pets are also becoming a part of the family for some, with almost half of the respondents reporting having more pictures of pets than of their spouse or significant other. The survey also found:

86% are including their pet in holiday celebrations
73% have signed a greeting card “from the dog”
64% hang a Christmas stocking for their pet

“Pets are becoming more than just a member of the family,” says Dr. Link Welborn, AAHA president-elect. “They are central to a healthy lifestyle and as a result, pet owners are going to greater lengths to keep their pets happy and healthy.”