2017 is coming to an end, and the truth is that it has been quite a hectic year around the world, especially from a political standpoint. Although we have set out not to talk about the bad or sad things, but rather to emphasize the good ones. Specifically, the good things related to the world of ARISTOPETS. To try to end the year on a positive note and start 2018 with hope and excitement.
That is why, since some very interesting things have happened around the world that significantly improve the lives of our best friends, below we present the ones we consider most significant
The 3 countries with the most ARISTOPETS
There are more and more pets in the world, but three countries stand out for having the most dogs and cats. In first place is the United States, with almost 70 million dogs and 74 million cats. It is followed by China, with just over 27 million dogs and 53 million cats. Some distance behind is Russia, with around 12 million dogs and more than 17 million cats.
Likewise, it is estimated that in Europe the number of ARISTOPARENTS who have at least one pet exceeds 80 million. Considering that the population of the old continent is around 743.1 million, according to 2015 data, that is not bad at all, is it?
Improvements in laws protecting ARISTOPETS
Spain has as many animal protection laws as it has autonomous communities, (17) plus 2 regulations for the autonomous cities. Therefore, progress cannot be measured nationally, but rather by region. That said, this year we celebrated Spain's ratification and accession to the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals. This convention guarantees basic legislation for animal welfare and was approved in Strasbourg in 1987. We arrived 30 years late, it must be said, but better late than never.
Likewise, we have also received good news from different regions of the country. For example, from the Community of Madrid, where the use of prong, choke and electric collars was ended. Or from the Canary Islands, where the regional government has finally drafted the preliminary bill banning circuses with animals and cockfighting.
Changes in the legal status of ARISTOPETS
Last May 1, the history of animals in Portugal changed forever. Animals ceased to be “things” and became legal persons, thanks to the approval of a proposal by the Assembly of the Republic. The reform of the Portuguese civil code changes the legal status of ARISTOPETS in a country with around seven million pets. It was a milestone not only nationally, but internationally, which we discussed at the time here.
Improvements in responsible pet ownership
The Netherlands, the country where the world's first animal rights party was founded (Partij voor de Dieren), is advancing responsible pet ownership and has determined that owners of “potentially dangerous dogs” will have to undergo training and complete a mandatory course, to ensure public safety and meet the dog's emotional and cognitive needs. This measure focuses on the owner rather than the dog, as usually happens, and will help put an end to the stigma surrounding these breeds.
In Miami, they are considering putting an end to so-called “puppy mills”, to promote sales of ARISTOPETS from shelters and local breeders regulated with certificates of origin.
Spending increases to feed ARISTOPETS better…
More than 8.5 million tons of pet food are sold annually. This generates a global business worth more than 19.5 billion euros. Norway is the country that spends the most on food for its dogs, with an average of around 629 euros per year. In contrast, Vietnam is the country where the least money is spent.
… and also to give them the best
More than 7 billion euros are spent each year on pet accessories. In China, 43% of these products are already purchased online. In addition, globally we spend more than 9 billion on services, including veterinary visits.
As you can see, there have been quite a few significant events for pets around the world throughout 2017, and we are sure there will be even more in 2018. We will keep you informed!
