Pet Week

May 5, 2008

You may Listen or download this story in .mp3 format. or as a .wav file

Profile America — Monday, May 5th. This is the time to recognize those nonhuman friends who add a special dimension to our lives — it’s both Be Kind to Animals Week and National Pet Week. While most pets are a source of companionship, many dogs provide protection and act as eyes for the blind, as well as helping other disabled owners. And its said that while dogs have owners, cats have staff. Dogs are found in just over one-third of U.S. homes, while slightly less than one-third have cats. However, those favoring cats usually have more of them. The average dog is seen by a veterinarian close to three times a year, while cats average two visits annually. Making food for our pets is an almost $11 billion a year business. You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureau online at <www.census.gov>.

Sources: Chase's Calendar of Events 2008, p. 253, 255
Statistical Abstract of the United States 2008, t. 1214
http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2008edition.html
U.S. Census Bureau, 2002 Economic Census, NAICS 311111
http://www.census.gov/econ/census02/data/industry/E311111.HTM