To provide comprehensive care, owners must ensure their pets have:
Globally, over half of all households include at least one pet, with dogs and cats being the most prevalent (APPA, 2023). While this statistic suggests a widespread affection for animals, it does not guarantee welfare. Animal welfare refers to the physical and mental state of an animal in relation to the conditions in which it lives and dies (OIE, 2019). Conversely, pet care encompasses the daily practices owners perform to maintain their animal’s health. This paper posits that optimal pet care is the practical application of animal welfare science. When pet care fails—via neglect, improper diet, or lack of socialization—animal welfare is inevitably compromised. To provide comprehensive care, owners must ensure their
Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and domestic violence. Many domestic violence shelters are now beginning to house pets, recognizing that victims often refuse to leave an abusive home because they cannot take their pet. Conversely, pet care encompasses the daily practices owners