The pet industry also supports nearly 40,000 jobs nationally. The study was commissioned by the Ontario Veterinary College last spring and conducted by U of G economics professor John Livernois, who is currently on sabbatical at an Australian university. It revealed that pets are an important family budget item, across all income classes and all provinces. Nearly half of Canadian households have companion animals, and the average family spends a few hundred dollars a year on their pets, an amount that rises with income levels. The study also identified the intangible benefits of pets, including emotional support, companionship, improved socialization skills in children and therapeutic benefits.
Animals are companions, confidants and social lubricants.
Adams, who specializes in the human-animal bond, said people are becoming more sensitive to their pets' needs. Veterinarians need to fully recognize the degree of attachment owners have for their pets and the demand for quality service in health and death-related services. The study points out that most veterinary practices depend on people's attachment to their pets. The University's Ontario Veterinary College is preparing its graduates to meet the expectations of pet owners. It offers courses on the animal-human bond and dealing with grief over the death of a pet.