A recent survey conducted by Rover.com reveals that 70% of Brits have opted out of holidays abroad since getting a dog.
Despite 82% expressing a love for overseas holidays, many dog owners are choosing to stay closer to home to avoid leaving their pets behind.
The research highlights that 67% of British dog owners now prefer UK staycations to foreign holidays, simply because they want to bring their dogs along. The emotional bond between owners and their pets is strong, with 64% admitting they can’t bear to be away from their dogs for more than a few days. Additionally, half of the respondents stated that they can’t fully enjoy a holiday without their furry companions.
For those who do travel abroad without their pets, the attachment remains evident. Over 78% confessed to thinking about their dogs daily during their trips, and surprisingly, 45% missed their pets more than their partners or children. This strong connection has even led 31% of dog owners to cut their holidays short to return home to their dogs, and 38% have skipped important events like birthdays and weddings due to concerns about leaving their pets behind.
Managing Separation Anxiety
With nearly a third (30%) of dog owners resorting to video calls to check on their pets while on holiday, and 33% using pet cams, it’s clear that many struggle with separation anxiety. The survey also found that 40% of dog owners insist on regular photo and video updates from pet sitters, and 31% even bring back souvenirs for their pets.
Owners worry about how their dogs cope in their absence, with 46% fearing that their pets spend their time crying or waiting by the door. Loneliness is a significant concern, with 40% of respondents worried their dogs will feel isolated. However, the reality often differs, as over half (54%) of owners admitted their dogs didn’t even notice they were gone.
Interestingly, the survey identified the top ten most independent dog breeds, with the Boxer leading at 90% independence, followed by the Pomeranian, Pug, and Golden Retriever. Despite these breeds being more self-sufficient, many owners still struggle with the thought of leaving their dogs behind.
The Struggle to Find Reliable Care
Nearly half (45%) of dog owners reported difficulties in finding a trusted friend or family member to dog-sit. However, 76% said they would feel more comfortable leaving their pets at home if they had a reliable dog sitter they could trust. Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist, offered advice on how to ensure pets are well cared for during their owner’s absence.
Fehmi recommends hiring a vetted home sitter to provide tailored care for dogs while their owners are away. He advises meeting the sitter beforehand to ensure they are a good fit for the dog’s needs and temperament. This preparation helps ensure that the dog feels as comfortable and stress-free as possible during the owner’s holiday.
Fehmi emphasises the importance of clear communication with the sitter, leaving detailed instructions about the dog’s daily routine, favourite activities, and specific needs. This helps maintain the dog’s usual schedule and minimises stress during the owner’s absence.
For those planning to travel, Rover.com is offering new users a £20 discount on their services, which can be used to find a trusted sitter or walker. This promotion aims to provide peace of mind to dog owners, ensuring their pets are in safe hands while they enjoy their holiday.
