More Than Just A Pet

 How much money do you spend on your pets a year? It is astonishingly to know that Americans pay billions of dollars on veterinary care every year. Burkhart Bilger discusses how a large portion of people is willing to pay expensive bills on medical treatment. Owners really love their pet and do not see it as a waste of money. The pet means a lot to owners; however, stray animals are not a big concern. House pets seem to have more value than a dog or cat at a pound. In the earlier days pets were not treated with surgery or any other treatment as they are now. Pet owners are now willing to pay a lot of money to make sure their pets will be fine.

            Many pets are offered Euthanasia, which is assisted suicide. Owners have the decision whether to put their dog to sleep or pay a high amount of money for veterinarians to try and save its pets life. Some owners go with the choice to try and save their pet, but others are persuaded by veterinarians to put their pet down. For example, in “The Last Meow” by Burkhart Bilge, he notes that there was a cat named Taberia that was put to sleep. However, her owner had so much love for its pet that she was going to bury it in an expensive pet cemetery. An ordinary dead pet found on the sidewalk would not ever receive a place in such cemetery.

            Pets are seen more than just dogs or cats, they are now seen as companions. Veterinary care has expanded so much because so many pet owners want their pet in a good condition. Bilger states, “Today, according to a recent survey by the American Hospital Association, 63 percent of pet owners say, “I love you” to their pets every day”. Obviously there is a higher concern for pets now. The owners have developed feelings for their pets so they want to provide them with good care. Many owners even pay for medical insurance to cover their pets.

            Loving an animal does not come cheap. Vet bills are very expensive, costing thousands of dollars. Nevertheless, owners are still willing to pay. Just like Shawn Levering who had to choose between his hot rods and his cat. Shawn Levering could have easily chosen to save the money and put his cat to sleep, but he chose to pay.