Category Archives: statistics and surveys

The survey says…

A new UK survey conducted on behalf of Purina has revealed what previous studies have shown, that the human-animal bond is important and that society benefits from our supportive relationship with animals.

Over two-thirds of pet owners feel a stronger bond with their pets than their family and friends.

Top ten ways the human-pet bond helps people feel better

10. Coping with Break-Ups 
For 32% of pet owners, the bond with their pets has been instrumental in helping them navigate the emotional turmoil of a break-up.

9. Support Through Health Conditions 
Approximately 42% of pet owners have found emotional support through their pets while dealing with health challenges.

8. Navigating Interpersonal Conflicts 
Pets serve as a source of comfort during interpersonal conflicts, helping 44% of owners cope with emotional stress.

7. Snuggling for Comfort 
46% find comfort in snuggling with their pets, providing emotional warmth and support.

6. Bringing Smiles 
49% reported that their pets bring joy into their lives and make them smile.

5. Alleviating Loneliness 
For 52% of pet owners, the presence of their pets significantly reduces feelings of loneliness, providing companionship and love.

4. Joyful Greetings 
A warm greeting at the door from a pet can bring joy, as experienced by 52% of pet owners.

3. Distraction from Worries 
Pets help their owners take their minds off things, with 54% of pet owners benefiting from this comforting distraction.

2. Uplifting Spirits When Feeling Low 
The companionship of pets provides comfort for 59% of owners when they are feeling low, helping to brighten their mood.

1. Support During Sadness and Life Changes 
61% of pet owners asked find solace in their pets during moments of sadness or significant life changes, including after a tough day at work.

Source: Nestle UK

The record for most dogs in a costume parade

The Guiness Book of World Records certified a new record on July 27th in San Diego, California and Petco Park, home of the  San Diego Padres baseball team.

The record was for the number of costumed dogs in a parade and the new record was 337 – lots more than the 200+ of the previous record.

Baseball parks from around the United States hold ‘bring your dog to the baseball game’ events each year.    New Zealand is currently gripped with Rugby World Cup fever, but somehow I doubt people here are ready to see dogs at Eden Park for an All Blacks test…

I hope you enjoy this video of the big day in San Diego.

Dogs as bed partners

Bedmaker Sleepyhead has released the results of New Zealand’s largest sleep survey.  The survey aimed to assess the sleeping habits of New Zealanders, primarily to make the connection between bedding and quality sleep.

The survey found that 60% of New Zealanders share their bed with a partner every night, 12% of us share our beds with our dogs or cats.

So, if you sleep with your dog – you are not alone!

(One of the benefits not mentioned in the survey is that your dog is an excellent bed warmer on cold winter nights.  Whereas a hot water bottle or wheat bag will cool down overnight, your warm and furry dog maintains your bed at a constant temperature.)

Love your dog survey results

Australian website PawClub surveyed dog owners from across Australia about their dogs.  Some of the more revealing responses to their How Much Do You Love Your Dog survey are:

  • When asked who they spend more time with and given the choice between their dog, partner, and all relatives including parents – 73% said their dog.
  • When asked who they spend more money on each month – their partner or their dog – 76% said their dog.

78% of respondents take their dog to the vet for a health check (at least once per year) and 51% reported that they walk their dog each day.

Over 80,000 dog owners participated in the survey.

Kathleen Crisley, specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and nutrition/food therapy, The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand