2003 Companion Animal Ownership On Rise U.S.

According to the 2003/2004 National Pet Owners Survey, companion animal ownership, estimated at 62% of households, continues to grow; the number of U.S. companion animal-owning households increased from 54 million in 1992 to 64.2 million in 2002. Dogs and cats are found in at least 30% of all U.S. households.

According to this survey, 64.2 million U.S. households reported owning a companion animal in 2002, compared to 54 million in 1992. 2002 estimates show:

• 77.7 million cats
• 65 million dogs
• 16.8 million small animals
• 17.3 million birds
• 8.8 million reptiles
• 7 million saltwater fish
• 185 million freshwater fish

Other findings:

• 30% of U.S. households have dogs and cats.
• The Western and Southern regions of the US have the most households with companion birds.
• The most popular reptiles among households with children are turtles/tortoises.
• One-third of small animal owners consider their companion animals to be family members.
• The top benefits associated with companion animal ownership are “companionship, love, company, and affection” in addition to “fun to have in a household.”
• The majority of U.S. companion animal owners have bought gifts for their companion animals in the last 12 months.