Our furry friends are becoming more like family members, according to an
Associated Press-Petside.com poll of more than 1,000 pet owners.
The poll found that almost half of American pet owners gave an animal a human-like name, such as Jack or Sophie. Max was one of the more popular pet names, although there were still many unusual pet names. Among the more interesting pet names were cats named "Hollywood" and "Chichi Mittens" and the dog "Jibber Jack."
The move away from more classic dog names, such as Spot, and the use of more human names is part of a trend that reflects the stronger bond between people and their pets, experts said.
The poll found many other indications of the integration of pets into the household:
- Half of pet owners said that their pet is just as much a part of the family as any other person in the household.
- 30 percent of pet owners said they share the bed with their pet.
- Almost 20 percent of pet owners have bought an outfit for their pet and 43 percent say their pet has its own sense of style.
- A pet’s birthday is a celebration for almost 30 percent of pet owners.
- 42 percent of pet owners have taken a pet on vacation and 35 percent have included a pet in a family portrait.
- More than 30 percent of pet owners have included their pet in a holiday card.
- Pets have gone to work with 17 percent of pet owners.
What do you think of the survey results? Do you think people go to far with treating their pets like people? Or do you think your Max or Jack or Sophie is as much a part of your family as your spouse or your kids? Post a comment!
