A sequence of images shows a man and a woman playing with their dogs. The scenes transition to showcase various moods of a black domesticated cat.
Companion animals are the animals that live, play, and sometimes work with people. They are a source of happiness, stress relief, and well-being for many Americans. The special relationships companion animals have in our lives has made the companion animal industry a significant part of the agriculture sector and a major contributor to our economy.
In the United States, about 70% of all households have at least one companion animal. Americans spend more than $100 billion annually on their pets according to the American Pet Products Association.
A young boy and his pet dog joyfully run together on a wet road. Following that, a woman is seen tenderly caressing a dog.
Domesticated animals are the most common animals kept as pets or companions. Domesticated animals are those that have been tamed from their wild forms for the benefit of humans. Most domesticated animals have been domesticated for thousands of years.
A young girl lovingly holds a cat in her arms. Then, a little girl is feeding guinea pigs in a cage, followed by a glimpse of a bird.
Dogs and cats are the two most common companion animals, but there are many more domesticated or semi-domesticated species kept by people around the world, including rabbits, guinea pigs, parakeets, and other birds. Some people keep wild or exotic animals as pets. This is often discouraged, sometimes illegal, and typically can require special licensing.
A hand gently caresses a lizard, and then two tortoises are observed in the next scene.
Wild or exotic pets include animals such as snakes and lizards, and large cats like tigers.
No matter the type of animal, all companion animals require a large time commitment from their owners.
A woman is using a trimmer to groom a dog's hair, followed by a young girl tenderly caressing a rabbit.
In addition to daily feeding, watering and exercise, there is grooming and providing veterinary care as well. Many of the habits an animal learns are decided in the first year of its life. Large amounts of time must be spent in training companion animals when they are young.
A still image captures a dog surrounded by various toys, transitioning to display essential pet care items and food.
A black cat is observed sitting inside a cage, followed by a woman visiting a veterinarian clinic with her dog. Next, a man and a woman showcase various animals kept in cages to their child. The scene shifts to a barking dog, and then a cat jumping on a bed.
The cost of raising a companion animal will be in the hundreds to thousands of dollars each year. Food, toys, treats, grooming and veterinary care all need to be considered. You should always learn how to safely handle and restrain your pets. Always use proper restraints when visiting a veterinarian for your pet’s safety, as well as your own and the veterinarian’s.
There are many considerations when choosing a companion animal. For instance, if anyone in your household has allergies or asthma, these conditions can be aggravated. If the chosen animal continuously barks or meows, or exhibits other undesirable behavior, this can cause unwanted stress for the pet owner or neighbors. Vocalizations and animal noises should be considered before purchasing a pet.
A large dog energetically jumps around, and then a smiling girl is seen holding a dog. After that, a man is observed holding a dog using a leash.
In addition, some animals may be too large or strong for you to handle when they are grown. Most animals are cute and cuddly when young but can grow to an unmanageable size as adults.
If you are interested in owning or working with companion animals, look for opportunities with local shelters, veterinary offices, and rehabilitation organizations.
A mother and daughter duo are seen walking dogs in a garden.
These positions will often provide experience that will help you in your schooling, obtaining jobs, and even reach your career goals.
The companion animal industry also offers many opportunities for interesting and often profitable SAEs. Something as simple as dog walking or pet sitting can be a rewarding experience, emotionally as well as financially.