Impact of the owner-pet and client-veterinarian bond on the care that pets receive I n 2006, a task force representing a dozen companion-animal health industry suppliers, medical providers, and associations gathered to discuss how companion-animal practices would maintain growth amidst ongoing struggles with static service growth and poor compliance results. The group questioned the level of consumer willingness to undertake veterinarian care for sick or injured pets as well as to maintain wellness programs involving ongoing examinations, vaccinations, preventive dental care, and other products and services. Until now, virtually no national comprehensive research had been conducted on the perceptions and attitudes of consumers toward veterinary care and their willingness to purchase related products and services. The task force commissioned BNResearch of Portland, Ore, to conduct a national study of pet owners to research their perceptions and attitudes. The Industry Task Force includes the AVMA; Banfield,