Posts by Robert Courtney
Pets and Well-Being: Why Pet Ownership Is Worth £70,000 in Life Satisfaction
The Emotional Value of Pets Veterinarians have long witnessed the emotional bond between pets and their owners, but a recent study has now put a price tag on that connection. According to new research published in Social Indicators Research, pet ownership delivers well-being benefits equivalent to a £70,000 increase in annual income—underscoring what many in…
Read MoreDogs Don’t Pay Rent, But They Do Pay Dividends (in Happiness)
Dogs: The Emotional Investment Strategy You Didn’t Know You Needed If your dog isn’t chipping in for utilities, don’t worry—they’re contributing something even more valuable: happiness dividends. A new study out of Social Indicators Research confirms what every dog parent knows deep down: dogs are an investment in your well-being. Wags Over Wealth Financial advisors…
Read MoreYour Cat Might Be the Only One Keeping You Sane (Science Says So)
The Surprising Science of Feline Companionship You might think your cat is just silently judging you from the windowsill, but here’s a twist: they may be the secret to your emotional stability. According to a new study in Social Indicators Research, pet ownership—yes, even your aloof feline—has a statistically significant positive impact on life satisfaction.…
Read MoreProof My Dog Is My Therapist (And Cheaper Too)
The Science Behind the Tail Wags It’s official: your dog is doing more for your mental health than your $200-an-hour therapist—and they accept belly rubs as payment. According to new research published in Social Indicators Research, owning a pet significantly boosts life satisfaction, even after accounting for income, employment, and education. Translation? That golden retriever…
Read MoreThe Paradox of Pet Spending: Luxury Indulgence Amid Declining Veterinary Visits
In 2025, pet ownership in the U.S. has reached unprecedented levels, with 66% of households—approximately 86.9 million homes—owning a pet. A recent survey by Wisdom Panel revealed that 64% of pet parents spend over $1,000 annually on their pets, indulging in items like pet-friendly vacations, custom accessories, and even personalized pet portraits. Yet, this surge…
Read MoreHow Tariffs and Trade Wars Can Impact Your Veterinary Practice
Tariffs and trade wars may seem like topics best left to economists and politicians, but their effects can hit much closer to home – right in your veterinary practice. In a recent article published by Veterinary Jobs Marketplace, author Stacey McClymont breaks down how international trade policies can directly affect your bottom line, especially in…
Read MorePet Insurance 101 – What It Is and How It Works
Pet insurance is becoming an increasingly popular tool for pet owners looking to manage veterinary expenses. Much like health insurance for humans, pet insurance helps cover unexpected medical costs, offering financial security and ensuring pets receive necessary care without hesitation. However, many pet owners are unfamiliar with how pet insurance works, what it covers, and…
Read MoreFrom Puppy to Senior: A Life-Stage Guide to Explaining Pet Insurance
In his insightful article “Insurance Talk for Every Life Stage” published in Veterinary Practice News, Ricky Walther, DVM, emphasizes the importance of tailoring pet insurance conversations to match the various stages of a pet’s life. With rising veterinary care costs, Walther outlines strategies for veterinary practices to educate pet parents about the financial benefits—and inherent…
Read MoreEffective Strategies for Discussing Pet Insurance with Clients
In today’s veterinary landscape, having pet insurance is an increasingly important tool for pet owners to manage unexpected veterinary expenses. However, many pet parents feel overwhelmed by the many options and details involved. For veterinary teams, the challenge is not to become insurance experts but to initiate clear, concise conversations that help clients understand the…
Read MorePet Insurance in 2024: Key Industry Trends and What They Mean for Pet Owners and Veterinarians
Pet insurance continues to see rapid growth across North America, reflecting rising veterinary costs and an increasing awareness of the financial benefits of coverage. The 2024 NAPHIA State of the Industry Report provides valuable insights into the latest trends, highlighting industry expansion, shifting pet ownership habits, and the impact of rising claims. Here’s what pet…
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