Introduction to Animal Science Pets and Companion Animals

Companion Animals Our relationships with companion animals contribute to our physical, mental, emotional and social health.

Support Industries 4 pet food $10 billion –$700 billion to other countries 4 veterinary expenditures $14.6 billion 4 pet care products 4 pet training 4 shows and trials 4 service and therapy dogs 4 humane societies

Role of Companion Animals 4 pets vs livestock –pleasure vs utility 4 not all “companion” species qualify as pets –barn cats 4 not all livestock species qualify as utility 4 pets: 6 categories

Ornaments Ornaments 4 decorative 4 seldom handled 4 sometimes named 4 brightly colored birds/fish 4 not generally considered companion animals

Status Symbols 4 origins are tribal 4 rare and unusual –expensive –prestige 4 admired and cared for –may not last long 4 poisonous snakes, big cats, vicious dogs, wolves

Playthings 4 sport and recreation for adults 4 living toys for small children 4 during its prime, it may be the object of considerable attention, but may be discarded 4 temporary, short-lived enthusiasm enthusiasm 4 may even be destroyed

4 displayed in organized shows 4 collecting and breeding 4 often belongs to clubs and societies –meet to display and show pride in collections 4 complex owners –knowledge –animals well cared for –sometimes just a prize Hobbies

4 perform vital services 4 complex relationships 4 9% population with handicap Workers and Helpers Often held in very high regard long after they are no longer able to provide their service.

Companions 4 perceived as a subject not an object 4 physical qualities irrelevant 4 relationship is important –family member –child –friend –servant –partnership

4 Form durable bonds 4 powerful non-verbal communication communication –postures, gestures, –facial signals, sounds 4 anthropomorphism Why are dogs and cats such suitable companion animals?

4 60 million cats 4 53 million dogs 4 17 million birds 4 55 million fish 4.8 million ferrets 4 5 million rabbits 4 2 million hamsters 4 Total = 206 million pets Common Species