ANALYSIS OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE OF PET BIRD OWNERS IN THRISSUR DISTRICT

A systematic study was undertaken in the socio economic profile of pet bird owners in Thrissur District of Kerala. A detailed questionnaire was prepared and data collected from 35 aviculturists to operationalise the study. Profile of owners such as age, gender, educational status, occupational status, marital status, social participation, years of experience in rearing pet birds, flock size and information utilization were analysed. Most of the pet bird owners were on the age groups of 31 and 40 years. Contribution of women was very less in this field. Most of the bird rearers were below graduates and reared pet birds as an auxiliary occupation. They registered their birds with different organizations. Family members have a great role in the management of pet birds with more than 10 years of experience. Majority of the owners collected information from internet. Very few pet owners attended trainings. Specialty pet services have been the fastest growing segment in the industry. This segment will continue to grow as more pet owners consider birds to be valued as members of their families. Overall, the industry has continued to expand and is considered to be in the growth stage of its life cycle.For many pet owners, their pets also facilitated relationships from which they derived tangible forms of social support, both of a practical and emotionally supportive nature. Given growing evidence for social isolation as a risk factor for mental health and conversely, friendships and social support as protective factors for individual and community well-being, pets may be an important factor in developing healthy neighbourhoods.