2017 is coming to an end and the truth is that it has been a busy year worldwide, especially from a political point of view. Although we have decided not to talk about bad or sad things, but to emphasize the good. Specifically, the good things related to the ARISTOPETS universe. To try to end the year on a good note and start 2018 with hope and excitement.
That is why, since very interesting things have happened in the world that transcendently improve the lives of our best friends, below we present what we consider to be the 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. First is the United States, with almost 70 million dogs and 74 million cats. Next is China, with just over 27 million dogs and 53 million cats. And at some distance is Russia, with around 12 million dogs and more than 17 million felines.
Likewise, it is estimated that in Europe the number of ARISTOPARENTS who own 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's not bad at all, is it?
Improvements in laws to protect ARISTOPETS
Spain has as many animal protection laws as Autonomous Communities (17), plus 2 Regulations for the autonomous cities. Therefore, progress cannot be measured at a national level, but by regions. This year we celebrate the ratification and incorporation of Spain into the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals. An agreement that guarantees basic legislation for animal welfare and that was approved in Strasbourg in 1987. We are 30 years late, by the way, but better late than never.
Likewise, good news has also reached us from different regions of the country. For example, from the Community of Madrid, where the end of the use of prong, choke, and electric collars was marked. Or from the Canary Islands, where the regional government has finally drafted the preliminary bill that prohibits circuses with animals and cockfighting.
Changes in the legal status of ARISTOPETS
Last May 1st, the history of animals in Portugal changed forever. Animals ceased to be "things" to become legal persons, thanks to the approval of a proposal approved by the Assembly of the Republic. The reform in the Portuguese civil code modifies the legal status of ARISTOPETS, in a country where there are about seven million pets. A national, and even international, milestone, which we told you about at the time here.
Improvements in responsible pet ownership
The Netherlands, the country where the world's first animal rights party (Partij voor de Dieren) emerged, is advancing in responsible pet ownership and stipulates that owners of "potentially dangerous dogs" will have to train and complete a mandatory course to ensure the safety of society and meet the emotional and cognitive needs of the dog. This measure focuses on the owner and not the dog, as is usually the case, and will work to end the stigma surrounding these breeds.
In Miami, they are considering ending the so-called "puppy mills," to encourage the sale of ARISTOPETS from shelters and regulated local breeders with certificates of origin.
Spending on feeding ARISTOPETS better is increasing...
Annually, more than 8.5 million tons of pet food are sold. This generates a global business that exceeds 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 on giving them the best
More than 7 billion euros are spent annually on pet accessories. In China, 43% of these products are already purchased online. In addition, globally we spend more than 9 billion on services, among which veterinary visits stand out.
As you can see, there have been quite a few significant events for pets worldwide throughout 2017, and we are sure there will be even more in 2018. We will keep you informed!
