Research involving more than 2,000 pet owners for the National Office of Animal Health’s (NOAH) www.pethealthinfo.org.uk website has revealed that one-in-seven pet owners (13%) would pay more for their pet’s grooming than their own.

The figure is highest among dog owners who appear to take the most pride in their pets’ appearance, with almost 20% (19%) stating they’d consider splashing more cash on their pup’s ‘do’ than their own. Around half the number of cat owners (11%) would also do the same. 

When it comes to where in the UK pet owners are most likely to spend more, the research found that Welsh pet owners topped the list (17% of owners), followed closely by those in Northern Ireland (16% of owners). Bottom of the list and lagging behind, was the East Midlands where the figure stands at just 7%. 

The findings have been released as part of the ongoing NOAH ‘I heart my pet’ campaign 2014 – designed to celebrate the love that UK pet owners feel for their animals and to encourage them to seek independent, expert animal healthcare advice through www.pethealthinfo.org.uk.

The research has also shown that it’s not just when it comes to grooming that we pamper our pets. Other confessions from UK pet owners include:

• Around a third of dogs and cats have their own seats in the living room (29% and 30%)
• 7% of pets have their own bedroom
• Around a quarter of dogs (23%) eat at the same time as the rest of the family, compared with 17% of pets overall
• Around one in 20 (4%) UK pets even has his or her own social networking profile
• 3% of owners buy their pets designer pet clothing
• 2% of UK dogs visit pet ‘day spas’
• A quarter of owners (25%) would cook their pet his or her meals from scratch
• Almost 20% (18%) of owners would choose a holiday destination based on their pets’ needs
• 26% of owners would consider getting another pet so their animal has company
• More than 1 in 10 owners would move house based on their pet’s needs 

NOAH Chief Executive, Philip Sketchley comments: 

“While these findings are sure to raise a smile, there is a serious message at the heart of our campaign. We know how much owners love their pets and how much they’re regarded as a part of the family so we’re urging them to ensure that their healthcare needs are taken care of all year round by seeking independent, expert advice through our www.pethealthinfo.org.uk site.

Owners can access a range of advice from independent veterinary and pet care experts on healthcare needs for all species. They can also find fun tools and activities designed to help keep their pets happy and healthy all year round. They can also get involved by joining the conversation on Twitter or on our Facebook page.”