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Companion Animals
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Caring for Cats and Dogs OVERVIEW
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More and more people are recognizing the benefits of sharing their lives with companion animals. A 2003–4 survey of pet guardians by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association revealed that one in three U.S. households has at least one cat or dog. That adds up to 77.7 million companion cats and 65 million companion dogs residing in the U.S. alone. In Israel there are no official statistics about the number of dogs or cats in households. Approximately 160,000 dogs are vaccinated against rabies and licensed each year, although estimates about the real number of dogs in homes range as high as 400,000. There are no statistics at all for cats.
On average, a companion cat lives 12–15 years, though some live into their 20s. The Guinness Book of World Records cites the oldest cat for whom records are available as living to the ripe old age of 34. The average lifespan of a cat living outside without a caretaker, by comparison, is 2 years. Living with humans has benefits. Companion dogs live an average of 10–12 years, with large dogs having shorter lifespans than small ones. The oldest dog recorded is 28.
How do we care for the animals with whom we share our lives for more than a decade and, in some cases, two? The fortunate ones are fed the most nutritious food, and they are provided with the best in veterinary care, exercise, companionship, and love. Those with the misfortune to live with neglectful or abusive guardians, just like neglected or abused children, suffer. Some dogs spend their entire lives on the ends of chains.
In this section, you can learn about:
So keep up with the latest ideas and have a great time with your animal friend and companion.
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