A new survey conducted by Opinium, commissioned by pet insurance provider Insure Your Paws, reveals that 70% of UK pet owners are more likely to take their pets to the vet than they are to visit the doctor themselves.
The survey highlights the importance placed on pet health by owners, with many going above and beyond to ensure their pets receive proper care, even at a personal or financial cost.
More than a third of dog owners (35%) and three in ten cat owners (30%) report taking their pets to the vet at least once a year, excluding routine check-ups. Additionally, nearly one in five pet owners (18%) said their pet experienced an unexpected illness or injury over the past year, adding further to the demand for veterinary services.
Financial Strain of Vet Costs
Unexpected veterinary bills are a significant concern for many UK pet owners, with 6% of those without pet insurance reporting financial difficulties as a result of vet costs. The impact is particularly noticeable among younger pet owners, as 11% of those under 34 said they have experienced financial hardship due to unplanned vet visits.
To cover these costs, some pet owners are turning to alternative sources of financial support. Around 11% would seek assistance from friends or family, while 10% would look to animal charities or organisations offering reduced veterinary fees. Unfortunately, 6% of pet owners admit they would be unable to pay vet bills at all in case of emergency.
Pet Owners Proactively Managing Health
Proactive management of pet health has become a priority for many owners. According to the survey, 28% of dog owners researched hereditary health risks associated with their dog’s breed before bringing their pet home. Furthermore, 43% of pet owners are willing to invest in the highest quality pet food available, with nearly one in seven (14%) going as far as cooking meals for their pets rather than relying on pre-packaged food.
This trend reflects the growing emphasis on pet health and wellbeing, with many owners taking steps to ensure their pets lead long, healthy lives.
Pet Insurance and Support Services
Andrew Simpson, Head of Pet at Insure Your Paws, commented on the findings, noting the strong dedication of UK pet owners: “Our survey clearly shows that the UK is a nation of dedicated pet lovers. Keeping a pet healthy and happy is the number one desire of all pet owners, and pet insurance can help to improve life quality with your pet.”
Insure Your Paws offers comprehensive pet insurance coverage, which includes unexpected vet fees, a 24/7 veterinary helpline called Assist Your Paws, and additional benefits such as emergency boarding and third-party liability for dogs. These services aim to support pet owners in managing the health and wellbeing of their pets while mitigating the financial risks associated with veterinary care.
The survey results underscore the growing trend of pet humanisation in the UK, with many owners placing their pets’ needs at the forefront of their priorities, often putting pet health care above their own.
Growing Demand for High-Quality Pet Care
The findings from Insure Your Paws’ survey are consistent with broader trends in the pet care industry. Pet owners are increasingly treating their pets as family members, opting for higher-quality products and services. The growing demand for premium pet food and proactive health management, including vet visits, aligns with the humanisation of pets, a trend that has reshaped the pet care industry.
As pet care costs continue to rise, many pet owners are seeking comprehensive insurance plans to safeguard against unexpected expenses. The financial strain caused by unexpected vet bills has highlighted the importance of having appropriate coverage in place. This shift in behaviour reflects an ongoing commitment by pet owners to prioritise the health and happiness of their pets.
For more information on pet insurance and the services offered by Insure Your Paws, visit their official website.
