A recent survey has unveiled some intriguing insights about how pet owners in the UK juggle holiday plans alongside their furry companions. While a significant number of pet parents love their animals dearly, only about 30% take them along on staycation holidays. This discrepancy raises questions about the relationship between pet ownership and holiday planning. Why do a vast majority of owners find it difficult to bring their pets on vacation?
Almost 70% of pet parents resort to finding alternative care for their animals while enjoying their holidays, demonstrating a clear divide in holiday habits among pet owners. This report from Go.Compare Pet Insurance suggests the disconnect between companionship and travel flexibility varies dramatically between cat and dog owners.
The survey highlights a notable difference in approaches between dog and cat owners when it comes to holidays. An impressive 53% of dog owners choose to bring their four-legged friends along on staycations. In contrast, the overwhelming majority of cat owners—96%—must arrange for someone to look after their cats when away from home. Cats often present greater challenges for travel due to their more territorial nature and specific care requirements, leading many owners to prioritize their pets’ comfort over the joy of travel.
The statistics also reveal how pet owners often rely on friends and family to care for their animals. Over two-thirds—around 69%—of pet owners stated they opted to leave their pets in the care of loved ones, suggesting that financial considerations may play a role in this choice. Notably, it appears that the sentiment of community and familial support significantly outweighs the demand for professional pet care services for many households.
While some pet owners trust family and friends, others turn to professional care services, often at a substantial cost. The study indicates that a quarter of pet parents spend an average of £140 weekly on holiday pet care, highlighting how quickly expenses can pile up when professional services are employed. The data suggests stark differences in prices depending on the service owners choose.
When it comes to professional options, kennels and catteries remain the most common form of outside care, employed by 16% of pet owners. These establishments typically range in cost from £10 to £30 per day, but fees can soar even higher. Interestingly, those who spend more than £31 per day for professional care tend to gravitate towards either higher-quality kennels or house sitting services, with costs correlating strongly with the level of service provided.
The challenge of selecting the right care solution reflects the balmy relationship that exists between pet owners and service providers. As the costs associated with professional pet care may be sighted as a hefty burden, many have expressed reliance on family for assistance, capitalizing on the most economical option available.
Ceri McMillan, a pet insurance expert at Go.Compare, weighs in on these findings, emphasizing that while we adore our pets, circumstances often prevent us from bringing them along on every outing. For cat owners especially, the need to arrange appropriate care is often non-negotiable. However, she points out that not everyone has reliable sources of support, prompting some to turn to professional pet care services that can be financially taxing.
To alleviate some of these stressors, research is paramount. Potential pet sitters or boarding services often require proof of comprehensive pet insurance, making it crucial for owners to be well-prepared. Pet parents would do well to investigate the various options available and establish connections within their community to mitigate costs when possible.
With the landscape of pet ownership continuing to evolve, the conversation surrounding holiday care for pets will only become more pertinent. The challenge lies in balancing the inevitable intertwining of pets in our lives with the pressures of travel. As more families embrace staycations, understanding and navigating pet care logistics will remain an essential component of the travel experience.
Whether through family, friends, or professional services, pet owners have many avenues to explore. Ultimately, ensuring the comfort and happiness of their beloved companions should be at the forefront of any pet parent’s travel plans.