Pet Owners Willing to Give up Perks for Pets

The economy may be placing a damper on everyone’s moods, and there are certainly cases of people leaving pets behind in foreclosed homes.  However, a recent American Kennel Club survey found that there are still plenty of people out there who choose the companionship of family pets over having a little extra money. 


The American Kennel Club surveyed more than 1,000 people and found that many would willingly use extra money to pay for a pet’s expenses or medical bills if needed.  In these times of severe penny pinching it is a heart warming thing to see that people are willing to pinch a little harder for the sake for their beloved pets. 


Respondents answered questions concerning whether they would give up certain luxuries to pay for their pet’s expenses. For example, 96% of those questioned stated that they would give up their regular gourmet coffee to help save money for a pet’s expenses.  While, 60% of those questioned said that they would skip their own hair for less in order to make sure they had enough cash to pay for a pet’s appointment at the groomers.


However, there were some luxuries that tipped the scales for pet owners.  More than 70% said they would not cancel their internet access in order to pay for a pet’s expenses. So, pets don’t start encroaching on our internet!  Grrr…


It also seems that pet health insurance is here to stay.  The survey indicated that many pet parents are continuing to keep up pet insurance to help cover those unexpected emergencies.  Hey, maybe one day all pet owners will be required to have pet health insurance?


There were several other cuts that pet owners were willing to make for their pets;


•    Eat at home (97%)
•    Drop that gym membership (72%)
•    Get rid of that cable or satellite service (50%)
•    Don't spend as much on new clothing (94%)
•    Put off remodeling (89%)
•    Buy a cheaper car (88%)


Source: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail?blogid=48&entry_id=33552