Americans' pets come first - survey

Americans may be clipping money-saving coupons and delaying buying a new home, but when it comes to their pets they're spending more than ever, according to a survey.

The poll by the non-profit American Pet Products Association showed pet owners are projected to spend a whopping US$12.2 billion ($15.9 billion) on veterinary care in 2011, up from US$11 billion last year and US$8.2 billion five years ago.