Lucky and Unlucky Pets

Pets can be expensive. The Tibetan Mastiff dog has an average purchase price of $3,000, while the Portuguese water dog costs $2,500 and the Black Russian Terrier goes for $2,000. This, combined with the yearly cost of ownership -- up to $1,843 on average for dogs and $1,035 for cats, according to the ASPCA -- indicates most pet owners are truly dedicated to their animal's survival and happiness.

79.7 million households own a pet, which is 65% of American homes. 42% of us own more than one pet. There are 77.8 million dogs and 85.8 million cats according to the Humane Society. 34% of dogs are purchased from a breeder, 4% from pet stores, 37% are adopted from shelters, 6% are taken in as strays and 20% come from friends or relatives. Only 3% of cats come from breeders, 2% from pet stores, 45% are adopted from shelters, 25% are taken in as strays and 25% come from friends or relatives.

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