Irish pet owners worry about their pets as much as their family

Half of Irish dog and cat owners worry as much about their animal as about other family members, according to a recent survey carried out by the insurance company Agria. 

What is their biggest concern? 

In a recent survey*, 4 out of 10 pet owners expressed their top concern as their animal's health and well-being, particularly regarding sickness or discomfort. Additional worries encompassed issues like mental health, behavioural challenges, obesity, and social interactions.  

“It's no shock to witness these findings, as they underscore the significant role animals play in our daily lives. I, too, found myself concerned when any of my pets seemed a bit off. If only they could speak, it would certainly make things easier.” says head Vet Agria Petinsurance, Robin Hargreaves.  

Is my pet bored? 

The majority of those expressing concern about their pets belong to the youngest age bracket, aged between 18 and 39. This demographic shows heightened awareness regarding whether their dogs or cats are understimulated, in contrast to other age groups. 

Who do Irish pet owners seek advice from? 

When in need of advice or assistance, approximately seven out of ten individuals turn to their veterinarian. Many also seek guidance from friends, family members, or online research. Notably, a slightly larger proportion of cat owners prefer seeking information online compared to dog owners. Additionally, about one in ten individuals utilize digital veterinary services for their queries. 

*The survey was carried out in November 2023 by Xtreme Insight on behalf of Agria. 847 dog and cat owners participated in the survey.