An examination and worming treatment for a pet in and around Cologne

Almost half of all German households (46%) have at least one pet. Around two-thirds of families with children keep pets, but older people also appreciate animal company: around a quarter of pet owners are over 60 (ZZF). It has long been scientifically proven that animals are good for people. Exercise when walking the dog, relaxation when cuddling, the trust that the animal will accept them without reservation, all of this promotes physical and mental health (ZZF). Five to 10 percent of the homeless also share their lives with animals, mostly dogs. They are constant companions, best friends, at the same time protection and wards, mediators in social contacts and a source of unconditional love for the owners (Bergmann, 2021). Animals are increasingly being used specifically in the treatment of psychological problems. At the same time, love of animals threatens to become a luxury item. In November 2022, the fee schedule for veterinarians was adjusted. Since then, the simplest examination costs at least 23.62 euros instead of 8.98 euros (cat) or 13.47 euros (dog), and the prices for vaccinations have doubled (BTK 2023). Worrying about older and sick animals places a much greater psychological and financial burden on poor and low-income earners than on higher earners. When animals are given away for financial reasons, there are only losers: not only animals and owners suffer from the separation, ultimately the consequences can burden the health system and thus become a problem for society as a whole.