National Pet Month reveal latest pet owner trends

New research carried out by the Pet Food Manufacturers Association on behalf of National Pet Month has provided an insight into the latest pet purchasing trends in the UK:

• There are 27 million pets in the UK with dogs and cats being the animal of choice for pet lovers with over 7.3 and 7.2 million across the UK respectively. 
• The ten most popular pets are: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, horses/ponies, snakes, gerbils, tortoises/turtles and rats (in that order).
• 39% of London’s pet owners purchase their pet for companionship, despite living in the UK’s highest populated city.
• 60% of single people in the UK buy a pet for companionship – 39% of whom have replaced their partner with a pet
• 21% of pet owners have wanted a pet since childhood, and almost of half of people living in the North East have wanted a pet since their early years
• The East Midlands has the most pet lovers, with 14% of the pet population living in the heart of the UK, compared to only 4% of the population residing in Wales.
• 39% of London pet owners feel the need for companionship despite having over 7.5 million neighbours across the city
• 21% of owners bought their pet for companionship, compared to only 5% who have their pet for security
• Over a quarter (27%) of the UK’s pets were bought or acquired from an animal welfare or rescue centre compared to 20% from a pet shop

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.