Pets are animals kept as companions and sources of affection, often domesticated species such as dogs or cats; however, wild animals tamed into captivity can also count. Pets can serve various functions such as hunting or guard duties but the primary draw of owning pets lies in their strong emotional attachment with their owners – this bond often seen sentimentalized in myth and art and used as basis for various movies including those featuring Lassie or Rin Tin Tin.
Pet industry is an expansive one that includes animals from birds to reptiles, fish and even insects. Dogs and cats are among the most popular choices among these diverse animal groups; other popular choices are birds such as canaries or parakeets; rabbits; guinea pigs/hedgehogs/hamsters/gerbils/mini pigs can all make good companions; reptiles can be kept too, although prior experience should be gained before keeping these species; aquarium fish may also make suitable pets; many keeper of these aquatic friends keep aquarium pets instead!
Pets are an invaluable source of revenue for the pet trade, accounting for roughly half of total revenues generated by selling reptiles, invertebrates and fish. Furthermore, this industry generates hundreds of jobs while contributing significantly to economic development both directly through income generated and indirectly via suppliers, breeders, veterinarians and other service providers employed within its realm.
PET was initially invented by DuPont chemists looking for new synthetic fibers during the mid-1940s, when searching for novel textile materials. Commonly referred to as polyester when used in fabrics, its resin counterpart PET resin can also be found used for containers or other applications. PET is composed of mostly ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid with small amounts of dimethyl terephthalate or cyclohexanedimethanol also included as components.
PET plastic is an affordable, flexible and resilient material commonly found in food packaging, water bottles and beverage containers. Additionally, thermoforms – thin sheets capable of being formed into different shapes – can also be fabricated using PET. PET can be recycled, but the process can be time- and labor-intensive. Furthermore, more PET than can be reused is produced every year, contributing significantly to global waste production. There are ways to decrease plastic usage, however. Reusable water and soda bottles as well as purchasing food in larger packages could all help decrease plastic use. Pet owners can reduce PET waste by brushing their pets’ teeth regularly to prevent dental disease and taking them in for regular veterinary exams – both steps will significantly lower how much PET ends up in landfills. Recycling PET whenever possible remains the best solution to reduce its presence.
