| Nowadays, pets represent an important economical support element as, in spite of the financial crisis and high unemployment rates Brazil has to face, the pet shop industry is expanding. Thus, there is direct and indirect encouragement to obtain a pet and strengthen the man-animal relationship. An epidemiological survey was conducted in the municipality of Bauru, state of São Paulo, to study the impact of companion animals on the household and the municipal economy. The study used questionnaires, personal interviews and was also held in veterinary practices, with a total sample of 115 animal owners (91 dogs, 24 cats). Considering the costs involved in the maintenance of pets under ideal conditions (food, drugs, vaccines, veterinary services), the estimated... |
