New research from Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance found that more than a fifth of pet owners have regretted choosing their pet’s breed.
Reasons for regret included that they didn’t have enough time to look after the animal, they turned out to be allergic to the pet (18%) and because they didn’t like their pet’s personality (16%).
Despite being a nation of animal lovers, the study also reveals that more than half of cat and dog owners don’t research their pet’s breed before ownership, and only 18% spent more than a week researching the right breed for their lifestyle.
The research also revealed that more than a fifth of pet owners have rehomed an animal and dog owners are more likely to regret their pup, 26%, compared to cat owners, 16%.
The statistics echo the latest figures from the RSPCA as the charity rehomes over 40,000 pets in a year.
Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance has launched the Pawfect Match tool to enable future pet owners to make informed decisions when choosing the most suitable breed for them.
The tool enables dog and cat owners to research various breeds including how much exercise they will need; how excitable the animal is and how well they get on with children.
TV vet, Dr Scott Miller commented: “I am saddened to hear that so many pet owners are regretting the animals they have chosen as companions. Dogs and cats come in all shapes and sizes and have different temperaments. Looking after a pet is a huge commitment so it is important that people undertake adequate research before buying a pet to ensure it is a happy experience for you and the animal.
“If a pet owner is struggling to look after their animal, I urge them to speak to a professional for advice. The Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance website also includes top tips for each dog and cat breed on how to care for these incredible creatures.”
The study also found that half of people decided to get a pet for companionship and 38% because a pet can offer unconditional love. Some pet owners admitted getting a pet breed because it had either appeared in a film or a celebrity owns them.
Jason King, Customer Director at Sainsbury’s Bank said: “Britain is a nation of animal lovers and pets are part of the family. We understand how important it is to undertake research before adopting or purchasing a pet, including what type of pet insurance is best suited to your dog or cat’s needs.
“Sainsbury’s Bank Pet Insurance now offers lifeline cover for cats and dogs so that their owners can have peace of mind should anything happen to their four-legged friends.”
Visit the Sainsbury’s Bank Pawfect Match tool to understand more about pet breeds and how to care for your pet.
