With one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world, there is currently an estimated 28.7 million pets keeping people company across Australia.
Approximately 69% of households around the country are home to a furry, fluffy, or feathered friend of some kind, with dogs being the preferred choice of companion animal at 48%, followed by felines at 33%.
Pets on the Coast
The Central Coast is no exception. Here on the Coast, we have the highest number of registered dogs anywhere in NSW, with 134,845 dogs registered in our local government area, according to Central Coast Council.
Our region is also known as one of the most pet friendly destinations in NSW, attracting people who come to make use of our dog friendly coastal areas and parks.
All the Best Bits
The benefits of pet ownership are far–reaching and anyone who owns a pet will tell you they really are like a member of the family.
85% of pet owners say their pets have positively impacted their lives, with the most common benefits stated including: Love, affection, and companionship Improvements to mental health and wellbeing Socialisation including community connections and increased opportunities for interaction Improvements to physical health.
Pets and Kids
While the broad benefits of owning a pet are undisputed, the advantages are particularly true for kids and young people. Owning a pet can boost your child’s immune system, help to reduce allergies and encourage them to be more physically active.
But aside from the evident physical benefits, there are also multiple social, emotional and psychological benefits from having a pet in the family.
Many studies have highlighted how owning a pet helps to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression in young people, as well as teaching important life skills including empathy, responsibility, resilience and positive relationship building.
Pets are even being used to build confidence in early readers, with many schools of thought now encouraging children to read aloud to their pets to develop confidence and competence in their reading abilities.
Pet Safety
With pets being such an important part of our everyday lives, it makes sense that we would want to keep them safe, happy, and healthy – just like any other member of the family.
SURVIVAL is a local, family–owned business that has been pioneering the first aid industry for close to 35 years. In response to customer feedback, its recently launched Pet First Aid KIT has everything you need to keep your companion animal safe.
From conforming pet bandages for snake and spider bites to dressings, thermometer, tick removal spoon and more, this clever KIT also contains helpful everyday pet essentials such as a silicone water bowl and poop bags for easy disposal.
It’s easy to take with you on your daily dog walk or any pet adventures, with the option to swap from a waist belt attachment to a secure shoulder strap. Plus, the shoulder strap doubles as a dog lead.
The best part is the vital first aid supplies contained in this popular Pet KIT can be used to treat animals and humans alike!
Sources: RSPCA Australia, Central Coast Council, Australian Seniors.