About one-third of cats and dogs brought into a household over the previous 12 months came from an animal shelter or rescue, according to a new study.
The market research firm Packaged Facts found that shelters and rescues make up the leading single source of cats and dogs and that adults ages 25 to 44 represent 53% of dog adopters.
“A somewhat higher percentage of cat owners than of dog owners adopt a new pet each year, reflecting in part the higher prevalence of multiple-cat ownership,” the report stated.
The study, U.S. Pet Market Focus: New Dog and Cat Owners, surveyed 6,001 adults. Among other findings:
- 39% of households, or 48.1 million, have at least one dog. About 15.5% of those households obtained a dog within the past 12 months.
- 24% of households have one or more cats, and 18% of them — 3 million — welcomed a new feline in the previous 12 months.
- When a dog or cat is introduced, the owner is much more likely to buy supplies at a brick-and-mortar store than on the internet.
- 55% of all dog owners consider veterinarians to be the most important source of pet care information.
The 95-page report is available for purchase at http://bit.ly/2lyITtL.