Owners responded that communication skills were a significant reason [74%] why they stayed at a particular veterinary clinic. Having complex medical situations and concerns explained in a reasonable, concise manner allowed the owners to feel more comfortable about making health care decisions for their pets. Interestingly, communication …show more content…
The owner-pet bond strength drastically affects the amount of health care the pet receives. The pet-owner bond is enhanced with increased amounts of time spent together and where the pet is allowed in the house. Owners with solid pet bonds usually keep their pets inside, permitted them in all rooms of the house, and/or permitted them to sleep in the same room as the owner. It follows the rational logic that spending more time with the pet, allowing it to eat, sleep and interact within the household strengthened the bond between owner and pet, however that bond also translated into increased spending on the pet. Owners with strong bonds to their pets visit the veterinarian nearly 40% more frequently than weak owner-pet bonds. Additionally, 76% of owners with strong bonds to their pets would spend whatever funds necessary to ensure the health of their