Pets — One of the family

In the past decade, pets have come to be considered less like animals and more like humans. This "humanization" of pets is a significant development, says Doug Poindexter, executive director of the World Wide Pet Industry Association. "Pets have become more a part of the family, more like children."

That has translated into a plethora of products that pamper, cosset, cater to and take better care of our animal family members. The pet-care industry has now reached the $38 billion mark in this country. For the majority of us, "pets are part of our everyday lives," said Poindexter in a telephone interview from Arcadia, Calif.

Dogs and cats account for the largest numbers, but the industry also includes horses, fish, reptiles and other pet animals.

WWPIA, a nonprofit arm of the pet industry, works to promote responsible pet ownership, said Poindexter. Though popular, having a pet is never something that should be undertaken lightly. "It is a responsibility. It should not be a whim. This is a life that needs a caring home."

The most important thing, he advises, is doing your homework beforehand. "Know what will be required, how much the animal will need to eat, what training will be necessary, how long it is expected to live — and if it outlives you, then what? An animal requires upkeep, socialization, veterinary care."

A lot of educational material is available, he says. You can check the library, talk with veterinarians, look on the Internet, check out breed clubs if you are looking at a specific breed, visit cat and dog shows and talk with other owners.

When it comes to training, for dogs especially, you need to decide whether you can do it yourself or will need professional help. "That's almost a case-by-case decision. Some dogs are easily trained; some are not," he said. If you do seek professionals' help, be sure you are comfortable with their methods. Training should not be abusive in any way.

Like any other family member, pets will require care and will cost money. And like other family members, they will enrich your life, he added. "They add an element of unconditional love. My dog is happy to see me, no matter what kind of day I've had. Pets teach compassion, caring. I can't imagine my house without them."

The trend toward "humanizing" our pets has also led to more research and better health care for the animals, says Evan Gubler, a veterinarian at Lakeview Animal Hospital in Bountiful. "A lot of what is available on the human side is starting to become available for animals. Significant areas of development include: