Biggest Pet Stories of 2009 Mirror Biggest Human Stories of the Year
2009’s biggest news stories had uncanny parallels between humans and the pets we care for in record numbers. This trend reflects the integral role that pets continue to play in our daily lives.
PurinaCare® Pet Health Insurance has compiled a list of the top news stories of 2009 and how they relate to issues of pet health and wellness. Consider these close connections between pets and their owners “In The News” this year:
1. Tough Decisions in a Tough Economy (but some refuse to skimp on pets)
The economic turmoil of 2009 affected people in all areas of their daily lives. This financial hardship caused a ripple effect on pets. The term “economic euthanasia” became part of the national vocabulary as some pet owners chose to make the agonizing decision to put their pets down because they could not afford veterinary care. Others chose to surrender or simply abandon their pets due to financial hardship.
While financial hardship and reduced consumer spending continued to impact our pets and our economy, those fortunate enough to still be employed simply refused to spend less on pets. The overall pet care segment continues to be one of the few bright spots in the down economy.
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2. Flu Season Affects Humans and Pets
This year the nation’s flu season escalated to a potential pandemic health concern due to the H1N1 virus or “Swine Flu”. The Centers for Disease Control reported that almost 47 million people became infected with the virus resulting in 9,000 deaths. On a smaller scale, the flu also affected our pets. In November, the H1N1 virus found its way into the feline population in three states (as well as five confirmed cases in domesticated ferrets and other domesticated animals). The H3N8 or “Dog Flu” has also surfaced in several dogs across the U.S. Fortunately, treatment options are readily available for both H1N1 and the Dog Flu, and there is a vaccine for the Dog Flu as well. As with any illness in humans or animals, pet owners need to watch for symptoms and seek the appropriate veterinary advice and medical treatments.
3. Political Change Breeds Puppy Star
After President Barack Obama and his family became the newest residents of the White House, America’s First Family soon welcomed Bo the Portuguese Water Dog, who’s been stealing the spotlight since his first appearance in April. Bo’s incredible popularity as the new “First Dog” created amazing interest and generated valuable discussion on how families and individuals need to match the appropriate breed of pet to their environment and lifestyle.
4. Debate Raged on Human Health Insurance while Pet Health Insurance Grows
One of the most striking parallels of the year between humans and animals is the discussion about health insurance. While the future of the human health care system has been debated, there is growing interest in the value and preventive protection of pet health insurance. Pet owners are expected to spend 8.5% more or $12 billion dollars on veterinary care in 2009 (up $1 billion from 2008), due to veterinary advancements like MRIs, cat scans, and complex surgeries for pets. Pet owners are discovering pet health insurance helps them provide the best to their pets without letting their wallet dictate the care.
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I am a firm believer in having pet insurance. We wish we had it this year when our Sheltie had to have two major surgeries for intestinal impaction. We didn’t have the money to begin with and luckily we have a great vet who gave us a payment plan.
Our other dog is getting older and will probably have problems later on. So to all dog owners, check into a quality pet insurance program and sign up. Just like with human medical insurance, you must be prepared for any emergency.
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I am not so sure that dog insurance is where consumers want it yet. Having worked in a veterinary clinic for a number of years, it seems that most people don’t get it not because it costs too much, but because it covers too little.
I think that once plans start to add more of a “wellness” allowance for things like dental cleanings, or yearly checkups is when it will really take off. Of course, this would increase the cost, but I think it would help get more pet parents onboard.
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