- Data also showed 21% of Brits plan to spend more money on their pet now restrictions have eased and they are spending more time of out of the house – including spending on pet day-care facilities and dog walkers
- With families back at the school gates, those with children are now spending more on clothes and accessories for their pet (£18), than those without (£13)
September 13, 2021 – Since March 2020, nearly a third (31%)(1) of UK adults have now bought or adopted a new pet, according to new research from American Express (NYSE: AXP).
While much of the country was confined to their households for significant periods during the last 18 months, over 16 million(2) animal lovers brought a pet into their homes and lives. Millennials and Gen Zs proved to be the most enamoured group, with just over half (52%) of 18-34 year olds buying or adopting a pet since March 2020.
Dogs were the most commonly bought or adopted pet during lockdown (14%), followed in popularity by cats (10%) and then fish (4%) with hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits and birds each being bought or adopted by 2% of the population.
Pampered pets
The American Express research shows that not only were pets being purchased during lockdown, but many pets already in households were treated more than ever during this time. A quarter (24%) of Brits who owned a pet before the pandemic say that they spent more on their pet during lockdown compared to before, with those that spent greater amounts saying they spent an average of £89.40 extra, equating to £588 million(3) across the nation, on top of their usual expenditure.
Treats galore
The American Express research also found that pet-loving Brits plan to spend an average of £23 each treating their animal companion in the first month that children are back at school, and (in some cases) adults return to the office, equating to £287 million(4) planned to be spent across the UK. This included spend on dog walkers and pet day-care facilities, as well as food, and toys.
It is Londoners who are likely to spend the most, spending on average £59 per pet over that first month.
| Region | Amount they expect to spend on extra treats in the first month of the return to school (and office) |
| London | £59 |
| Scotland | £26 |
| West Midlands | £26 |
| East Midlands | £26 |
| Yorkshire & Humberside | £24 |
| North East | £20 |
| North West | £20 |
| South East | £16 |
| South West | £15 |
| Wales | £15 |
| Northern Ireland | £14 |
With families back at the school gates, it is Brits with children spending more on clothes and accessories for their pet (£18), than those without (£13), ensuring that their pets are looking great for the school run.
American Express provides the following top tips for animal loving Brits:
- Earn points and rewards – When treating your pet this autumn, remember to put your spend on a cashback or rewards Card so you can earn something back on your spending.
- Support local businesses – Giving your business to local and independent shops can do a lot to help small businesses, so when searching for that special treat for your pet, try your local high street.
- Find a great local pet sitter – If you are going to be out more than usual, there are local businesses which offer dog walking services or can pop in and check on your pet.
- Invest in pet tech – Treat your pet to the latest tech gadget, from e-toys to activity trackers. There is something for every pet to help them stay healthy, active and entertained.
- Consider your local animal rescue centre – There are plenty of animal rescue centres across the UK where you can buy a pet. They do amazing work and are also a great source of information about caring for your pet, with knowledgeable workers and a wealth of online resources.
ENDS
