Canada is experiencing a “pet-demic”. Forget baby showers, Canada’s throwing puppy parties! A remarkable demographic shift has occurred: paws now outnumber playdates. What’s driving this demographic shake-up, and what does it mean for the future of the Great White North?
In Canada, the number of pets now significantly outnumbers children. Reports indicate that there are approximately 28.5 million domestic animals in Canadian households compared to 7.3 million children under 18. This means these furry friends outnumber children by nearly 4 to 1.
Statistics of pets and children in Canada.
The total pet population in Canada has been steadily increasing. In 2016, there were 27.47 million, then 28.05 million in 2021, and it is projected to exceed 28.5 million by 2025. These pets include cats, dogs, small mammals, fish, and reptiles.
| Year | Population | Pet |
| 2020 | 8.51 million | Fish |
| 2020 | 2.51 million | Birds |
| 2020 | 1.23 million | Small mammals |
| 2020 | 271,100 | Reptiles |
| 2022 | 8.5 million | Cat |
| 2022 | 7.9 million | Dog |
Children below 17 Years
| Year | Population |
| 2020 | 6.4 million |
| 2021 | 6.5 Million |
| 2022 | 6.54 Million |
| 2023 | 7.3 million |
Recent data shows Canada is home to an estimated 28.5 million domesticated animals , exceeding the 7.3 million children under 18.This means pets outnumber children by nearly 4 to 1.
Why the Pet Boom?
Numerous factors, such as the need for company when alone, the trend of animal humanization, and shifting demographics like the rise of millennial pet owners, are associated with this increase in their ownership.
- Post driven adoption:
Since the onset of covid-19 pandemic, people have spent more time at home creating a need for companionship ,which increased the need for these furry friends.
According to a June 2021 national survey by Abacus Data, there’s been an 18% increase in animal ownership in Canada and approximately 3% of Canadians who didn’t have a animals before the pandemic have since added a furry friend to their household.
-
Pet Humanization:
(Shutterstock)
A growing trend is the perception of these furry friends as integral members of the family, leading to increased spending on their care and well-being.
Millennials, in particular, are adopting domestic animals as a lifestyle choice, often treating them like children or stepping stones before starting families.
- Mental and physical well-being:
Domestic animals also help enhance mental and physical well being. They offer benefits such as decreased blood pressure, reduced risk of heart attacks, increased physical activity, and emotional support.
- Changing demographics:
Millennials and Gen Z, who are having fewer children or delaying parenthood, are becoming a larger segment of domestic animal owners. These generations are more likely to work from home or in hybrid settings, making it easier to care for their furry friends.
The Economic Paw Print
The domestic animal boom has significantly impacted the economic of the country ,This, in turn, positively impacts sales and care items such as food, treats, beds, toys, litter, and grooming. Overall spend in those categories increased by 117% during the last 18 months.
In 2023, the pet stores industry in Canada generated $3.8 billion in revenue. From 2018 to 2023, the industry’s market size grew at an average annual rate of 6.3%.Canada plays a crucial role in the global domestic animal product market as both an importer and exporter. Last year, the country imported pet food products worth $1.80 (€1.66) billion.
It exported food products totaling $960 (€883) million, primarily to the United States and China. In 2023, Canada imported lots of pet food from the United States, accounting for the largest share of the $2.4 billion in U.S. pet food exports, with dog and cat food leading the category.
The industry is projected to reach $358.62 billion by 2027, reflecting sustained growth and interest in all things related to these domesticated animals.
Canada Redefines “Family”
Canada is changing the definition of family itself, with more pets than kids. These animals, whether they be dogs, cats, or hamsters, are becoming more and more essential parts of our homes because they bring happiness, unconditional love, and companionship.
It’s obvious that the ties we have with our furry friends will continue to influence Canadian society as we move forward.
For more such informative articles stay tuned at The World Times.
