Read the following passage about the The Growing Pet Economy in America and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate th...

Read the following passage about the The Growing Pet Economy in America and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

American families are spending more money on their pets than ever before. Recent surveys show that households now spend about $4,366 each year on their animal companions, while younger people spend even more, at around $6,103 annually. This spending increase shows that many Americans spoil their pets rotten, treating them like real family members instead of just animals. [I] Pet owners buy expensive food, toys, and services for their dogs and cats. The emotional connection between people and their pets has become much stronger, changing how families budget their money and live their daily lives.

The modern pet industry offers many new products and services. Eighty percent of pet owners want more pet-friendly public spaces available. Besides basic needs like food and shelter, owners now purchase GPS collars to track their pets, monthly subscription boxes with treats and toys, and special medical care. [II] Over half of pet owners think employers should let workers bring pets to the office. These changes show that society's view of pets has shifted from seeing them as property to treating them as beloved companions.

This substantial pet spending boom affects many different businesses. Companies that make premium pet food are growing quickly, along with grooming salons and veterinary clinics. Experts believe this growth will continue for the next ten years, especially for health and wellness services. Hotels and restaurants are creating pet-friendly spaces to attract customers. [III] The travel industry has developed special services for people who vacation with their pets. These businesses understand that pet owners will pay extra for services that include their animals.

In conclusion, the pet economy represents a major change in American culture and spending habits. [IV] What started as basic pet ownership has transformed into something much bigger. People no longer just own pets; they parent them like children. Market researchers say this trend is permanent, not temporary. As Americans continue viewing pets as family members, businesses will keep creating new products and services to meet this demand. This economic shift proves that the relationship between humans and animals has fundamentally changed in modern society.

https://www.newswire.com/tc

Question 31: The phrase “spoil someone rotten” in paragraph 1 has the closest meaning to _________.

A. look after                                B. put up with                                 C. dote on                                        D. count on