The Dog House / by keith messick

The National Association of Realtors just released a report on the impact of pets on their owner's decisions to buy, sell, or renovate a home.

The data was very revealing.  Pets are a significant part of our lives.  

I know my Golden Retriever, Zoe, is definitely a significant part of mine.  Sometimes I think my life revolves around her.  Other times, I know it does.  

Here are some key statistics from the report:

  • 61% of U.S. households either have a pet or plan to get one in the future

  • 99% of pet owners said they consider their animal part of the family

  • 67% of Realtors say animals have a moderate to major effect on selling a home

  • 52% indicated that they had completed a home renovation project specifically to accommodate their animal

  • 31% of animal owners often or very often refuse to put in an offer on a home because the home is not ideal for their animal

  • 95% of animal owners believe it is important that a housing community allows animals

  • 81% of U.S. households say that animal-related considerations will play a role in deciding on their next living situation

  • 52% of those surveyed undertook home renovations to accommodate their animal

  • 12% of consumers have moved to accommodate their animal

Breakdown of pet ownership:

  • 83% own a dog,

  • 43% own a cat

  • 9% own a bird, reptile, amphibian, arthropod, small mammal, or miniature horse

  • 8% own a fish

  • 5% own a farm animal

 

My dog Zoe