Tail of the Year: What Kind of Pets Can Enter?

When you hear the word “tail”, what kinds of pets come to mind? Likely dogs and cats, and not much else. But our Tail of the Year Awards are open to entries from all types of pets! If they’re a pet and they live in Hudson County, NJ, then you can enter them into the competition! Here is a list of all of the animals that can apply to be the Hudson County Tail of the Year!

1.Dogs

An obvious choice, but they’re aptly given the nickname “man’s best friend” for a reason. Approximately 89.7 million dogs are owned as pets in the United States, and that number can only be growing. There are several breeds of dogs, including a variety of mixes and mutts. Dogs have excellent senses of smell, and have been utilized by the police force to assist in investigations. A bloodhound’s sense of smell can even be used as evidence in a court of law!

2.Cats

In a “most popular pet” contest, who would you expect to win: dogs or cats? If your guess is dogs, you’d actually be wrong! Approximately 95.6 million cats live in United States households Cats have been kept as pets for the past 9,500 years, and were revered as sacred in ancient Egypt. Although cats can be pretty active and playful, most cats spend about 70% of their life sleeping. Their dreams must be amazing!

3.Fish

What pet could possibly be more popular than dogs and cats? Fish, of course! Approximately 139.3 million freshwater fish are owned as pets in the United States. Several fish can be cared for at the same time in freshwater aquariums, and their low maintenance makes them a great pet option for children. Don’t be fooled, fish are much smarter than they are given credit for. Many fish interact with their owners, and can even learn a few tricks.

4.Rodents

Rats, mice, hamsters, oh my! Rodents are quite popular pets due to their small size and affordable care. Although they are slightly higher-maintenance than fish, they too make a great beginner pet for children and adults alike. Hamsters are a popular pet option due to their friendly disposition, and rats are common due to their intelligence. Although rodents don’t live very long, they make excellent companions.

5.Rabbits

Although no one knows for sure, it is estimated that between 3-7 million rabbits are kept as pets in the United States, making them a very popular household pet! Rabbit maintenance is often misunderstood: they actually need as much attention and care as dogs and cats. Their relationship with humans is fairly new, as rabbits kept as pets only dates back to the 18th century. They have very distinct personalities, and if you are prepared for the upkeep, they make excellent companions.

6.Reptiles

Reptiles are kept as pets in approximately 1.8 million American households, making them another popular companion. They range in their maintenance levels depending on the species. The most popular reptile pets are turtles, geckos, snakes, and bearded dragons, although there are several other reptile pets to choose from.

7. Any Pet in who lives in Hudson County, NJ can enter!

Have a pet that we didn’t include on this list? Don’t worry, we will consider all pets in this competition! Make sure to get in your entries soon, as voting starts on September 27th, 2021! Go to Tail of the Year and enter today!