"PlayStations and television are replacing pets in the modern home," reports the Scotsman:
The percentage of British homes with a pet has fallen from almost 55 per cent in 1999 to 48 per cent today. In some cases, children are even turning to virtual pets instead of the real thing. "The falling number of children has contributed to this decline. What is more, even in those families with children, the demand for pets may not be as strong as it once was, since many children now prefer to immerse themselves in the world of computer games and TV programmes," the study [by Mintel] concluded.
Oh, come on. It's Friday.