Many people choose pets over passion

(NC) Who do you love? Your dog? Your cat? Your spouse? Your kids?  Of course, you love them all, but would you be willing to give up one for another? The answer may surprise you. 

A recent survey of Canadian dog and cat owners conducted by Ipsos-Reid for Pfizer Animal Health found that many of us would pass on our partners for the love of our pets.

According to the survey, 20 percent of Canadian cat and dog owners would not date someone who did not like their pets.

It seems that for those playing the dating game, no matter how charming the prospect, love of a pet is a deal maker or breaker.

Once hitched, more than one-quarter of cat owners and about one-third of dog owners say they would keep  their pet even if their spouse was  allergic to it.

Whether you are willing to sacrifice love and romance for your pets or not, it's important to do the basic stuff to ensure your pets stay healthy.  Be proactive in your pet's health.

Annual checkups give your veterinarian a chance to notice any developing illness and treat it accordingly. Also, preventative therapies recommended by your vet such as tick, flea and deworming medications help to avoid larger problems before they occur.

Exercise helps animals stay physically and mentally fit.

Intestinal parasites can be a real problem in dogs and cats, and if left untreated, the risk grows to include pet owners and their families. For more information, visit www.noworms.com .