Brits canine concerns halt holidays, says new research

New research from Rover.com, has today revealed that a whopping 70% of Brits* have vetoed holidays abroad since getting a dog.

Despite the majority (82%) admitting they love holidaying overseas; it seems they simply love their dogs more, as 67% of Brits confess to swapping sun, sea and sangria for a UK staycation, just so they can bring their pooch along. In fact, 64% of owners say that they can’t bear to be away from their pet for more than a few days, and half (50%) can’t fully enjoy their holiday without them there.

For those that have left their four-legged friend behind for a trip abroad, more than three quarters (78%) say that they thought about their dog and what they were doing every day whilst they’re away, and shockingly, 45% confessed they missed their fur-baby more than their partner or kids (37%). Pining for their pup, almost 1 in 3 (31%) have even cut a holiday short to be reunited with their pooch, while 38% have missed big events such as birthdays and weddings as they felt too worried to leave their dog.

Unable to fur-get their worries, nearly a third (30%) say they resort to facetiming their pooch while on holiday as well as keeping an eye on them via pet cams (33%). What’s more, photo and video updates from pet sitters are a must for a fifth of owners (40%), with some even bringing their pups back a holiday souvenir to express their love (31%).

Anticipating a dogsaster when leaving their pooch at home, owners worry that their dog spends their time crying for them (46%) and waiting at the door for their return (41%), with one of their biggest concerns being their dog getting lonely (40%).  However, in reality, it’s a case of unreciprocated puppy love, as more than half (54%) admit their dog doesn’t even notice they’re gone – much to their dismay.

The top 10 most independent dog breeds

1. Boxer (90%)
2. Pomeranian (89%)
3. Pug (88%)
4. Golden Retriever (87%)
5. Corgi (87%)
6. Whippet (86%)
7. Dachshund (84%)
8. Border Terrier (84%)
9. Maltese (83%)
10. German Shephard (81%)

When it comes to logistics, nearly half (45%) of owners say they struggle to find a family member or friend who can dog sit – yet with this in mind, three quarters (76%) of pet parents say they would feel more comfortable to leave their pooch at home if they had a dog sitter, they felt they could trust and rely on. 

Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist comments: “It’s natural to worry about leaving your dog behind when you go on holiday. However, with proper planning and care, you can ensure your dog remains happy and healthy in your absence – and even feel like they’ve had a holiday of their own!”

“Hiring a trusted, vetted home sitter can be a great option for pet care when you travel. Based on your dog’s specific needs and temperament, you can decide whether you’d prefer the sitter to stay in your house, or alternatively, they can offer your dog a home from home experience. Whichever you choose, always be sure to meet up with your sitter prior to any holidays, and allow your dog the opportunity to get to know them.”

“A vetted home sitter will be able to cater to your dog’s individual needs, follow any daily routines you have in place, and help your dog to feel as stress free as possible in your absence. To help ensure peace of mind, always discuss and leave clear details of any specific requirements your dog has, including details of what they’re usual day to day looks like, favourite walking spots, food, and ways you offer them attention.”

For those looking to jet off to in sun and leave their dog in safe hands, Rover is offering a code for new users to receive £20 off its services, to allow a loving, trusted sitter or walker to care for their pet. Enter the code FURCATION24. Terms and conditions apply. To find out more, visit https://www.rover.com/uk