Pet craze widens opportunities for veterinarians

Dr Ozaye Dodson

Time was when the expression ‘it’s a dog’s life’ was meant to convey an existence characterised by tough times, sacrifice, even privation. These days, increasingly, there is evidence that some dogs’ lives are on the up and up. We still have our fair share of strays that must forage for food every day, while keeping a keen eye out for hostile humans who see stray dogs as objects of derision. While it may be an overstatement to suggest that the tables have turned, a case can definitely be made for suggesting that these days, greater numbers of dogs enjoy more rewarding lives than many humans.

Pets, primarily dogs and cats, have always been common features in Guyanese homes. These days, however,