Chart Of The Month: Not All Pets Are Dogs Or Cats

While dogs and cats dominate U.S. pet ownership, many households also care for birds, fish, reptiles, rabbits, and other less common species—representing a significant opportunity for Veterinary practices. According to the AVMA Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook, fish are the third most common pets after dogs and cats, followed by reptiles and birds. Though their percentages may seem small, they translate to millions of households.

To support this broader patient population, practices can either expand services or refer to specialists. Establishing clear care boundaries, building referral networks, and offering reliable educational materials are key steps. Proactively communicating what types of care your practice provides—and when referral is appropriate—can reduce stress for clients and staff, while reinforcing your commitment to animal welfare across species. By supporting the needs of all pet owners, even those with less common animals, Veterinary practices can strengthen trust, enhance client satisfaction, and promote comprehensive pet health.