Pet Parents and the Loss of Attachment
Document Type
Contribution to Books
Publication Date
2020
Abstract
American pet owners spent over $69 billion on their pets in 2017 and are on track to spend an estimated $72 billion or more in 2018 ( [sic] (APPA, 2018). While it is tempting to focus on the capitalism of this booming industry, it may be more valuable to consider where that money is being spent, and on whom. With over $29 billion spent on food and food treats, $17 billion on veterinary care and pet insurance, and $15 billion spent on supplies, including over the counter medicine and toys, clearly many American pet owners are increasingly invested in their pets' welfare and quality of life.
Publication Information
Volsche, Shelly. (2020). "Pet Parents and the Loss of Attachment". Pet Loss, Grief, and Therapeutic Interventions: Practitioners Navigating the Human-Animal Bond, 55-69.