According to the results of a new study from Mars Petcare US, pet parents celebrate their furbabies with paw-tastic parties.

Mars Petcare US just shared results from a new survey that really shows how important pets are in the lives of their pet parents, and how much pet parents really dote on their pets.

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It’s no secret that pets are part of the family. In March of this year, 1,000 pet owners were surveyed to see just what being a part of the family really means. According to Jam Stewart, Director of Corporate Communications at Mars Petcare, we acknowledge the significant role pets play in our lives and we often put that relationship first in our priorities.

The survey found that many pet parents enjoy shopping for and treating their pets just as much as they like to do for themselves. Over half the pet parents surveyed said that they are even more likely to splurge on their pets than they are for themselves, and 40 percent of pet owners enjoy taking their furry family members with they when they shop. This is something that businesses may want to note, as 43 percent said they actually prefer shopping at places of business that allow them to bring their pets inside!

And, it’s no secret that pet parents celebrate special days as they would for any other family member! Almost 50 percent of those surveyed said they celebrate their pet’s birthday (or gotcha/adoption day) with gifts and even parties! And, let’s be honest…why wouldn’t we?

In fact, today is my sweet Dixie Belle’s 11th birthday! In December, we found out she had cancer, and frankly, we didn’t think she’d make it this far. You BET we’re celebrating!

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But for pet parents, it’s not just about the celebrations. We just love having that unconditional love and affection our pets offer. They are companions and confidants, according to the whopping 70 percent of pet owners who said they have conversations with their pets, and nearly half who said that they shared secrets with their pets. I mean, seriously…best vaults ever!

When we have to leave our pets with a sitter, 40 percent of us check in at least once daily to ensure Fifi is doing fine, and 22 percent of pet parents even call home so that their furbaby can hear their voices!

Now, if we could only get them to talk back to us!