The research, commissioned by Pet Health Club, has revealed the top 10 things dog and cat owners wish they had known prior to taking home their furry friend, and the leading pet health plan provider has created an online quiz to make sure potential pet owners know what’s in store.
A OnePoll survey of 2,000 pet owners found that 66% of those in Southeast England with a dog described the first few months of ownership as a crash course in canine chaos. However, the survey also outlines the paws-itives to owning a cat or dog from mental health boosts to companionship.
The number one thing puppy owners wish they knew was the fact they’d need to carry emergency poo bags in every pocket, while how much cats shed and fur getting everywhere took the top spot for kitten and cat owners.
Dogs were also found to have selective hearing while cat owners quickly discovered all furniture becomes fair game for scratching – despite having scratching posts.
Many said they quickly learned that ‘walkies’ means going out in all weathers – come rain, wind or snow (24%) – and that their spot on the sofa would be taken the moment they got up (23%).
Other surprises for dog mums and dads included 5am wake-up calls for no apparent reason (19%), the fact they would need their teeth brushed (21%) – and discovering their dog could track down and roll in the smelliest things (17%).
For cat owners, 38% said they were surprised to find no matter how many scratching posts they bought, furniture was still fair game, according to the research commissioned by Pet Health Club, which is available from more than 800 veterinary practices across the UK and Ireland.
And while cat owners may have splashed out on a fancy bed, their cat preferred the cardboard box it came in (26%) while others noted their pet’s uncanny ability to knock things off shelves – seemingly just to watch them fall (17%).
The research however also shows how many benefits come from owning a pet, from better mental wellbeing to being more active, with 33% of those surveyed in Southeast England saying the most rewarding part of having a pet is the unconditional love and companionship.
Despite the unexpected quirks, more than half of dog owners (52%) said having a pet has improved their physical health, while it gives a mood boost to 74%.
Among cat owners, 61% said their mental health had improved since bringing their pet home.
Pet Health Club has developed an online quiz to help potential pet owners decide if they’re ready for the responsibility, or whether they need to do more research first.
Jo Le’Burn, practice director for Shinfield Veterinary Practice in Wokingham, which is part of the Pet Health Club network of vets, said: “Every pet has their own little quirks – these often become the very things we grow to love most about them."
“Whether you’re a seasoned dog or cat owner, or bringing home your very first pet, there’s always something new to learn. Some behaviours might be funny or unexpected, while others are linked to their health – from needing tailored parasite treatments to staying on top of their dental hygiene.
“It’s easy to underestimate just how much care pets need behind the scenes. In reality, every day is a learning curve, and it’s completely normal for owners to feel a bit out of their depth at the start.”
Pet Health Club has launched Little Paws, a puppy and kitten package designed to support new pet owners. With expert advice for every step of their pet’s journey, new owners will receive expertise on training, diet and healthcare. New pet owners will also receive a welcome bundle worth up to £100*, including exclusive access to Pet Health Club’s popular Puppy and Kitten Academy.
Dean continued: “Our research shows that owning a pet brings so many positives – from better mental wellbeing to being more active – but it’s also something that can reshape your whole routine.
“Many people find themselves adjusting their day-to-day life to fit in walks, feeding times or vet visits. This was especially true after the lockdowns, when life suddenly sped back up again, and many pets had to adapt too.
“That’s where support can make all the difference, as we help owners stay on top of their pet’s healthcare without added stress.
“It’s about giving owners peace of mind, so they can focus on enjoying time with their pets.”
For more information on Little Paws visit www.pethealthclub.com/uk/little-paws and to complete the quiz visit www.pethealthclub.com/uk/little-paws-pet-quiz.