The Recession-Proof Business Of Dogs

In 2018, American pet parents spent $72 billion on their pets, more than the combined GDP of 39 countries. Yet many pet owners find themselves with very little in the way of pet emergency funds. With the reality of one in three pets requiring urgent veterinary care every year, how are Americans managing to meet their pets’ emergency medical needs?

When we bring home a puppy or a rescue dog, we take on a big responsibility - from then on, it’s up to us to give them the best life we possibly can. On average, we spend around $1,300 per year on pet care from food to vet visits and most of us are willing to make personal financial sacrifices to make room for our pet’s needs. When money is tight and emergencies can’t always be planned for, forward-thinking pet owners prioritize their pet’s health as a means to help alleviate or outright avoid any emergencies so that when the unthinkable happens they are well prepared. In many cases, this means focusing energies on giving pets the best nutritional available; 85% of pet owners believe that proper nutrition will help give their pet a better quality of life and even extend it. The pet health insurance industry is projected to reach a value up to $2 billion by 2022 as pet owners rely on it to help with treatments from dental care to radiation therapy.

Vet care doesn’t come cheap but the unconditional love we have for our pets never runs out. This infographic details the recession-proof pet industry, how we are managing pet care even when money is tight, and how it’s helping our pets live better lives.