Study reveals that having pets can help you socialise
Dogs are inherently social creatures, craving both human companionship and interactions with fellow canines. Whether it's strolling through the park, engaging in playtime, or simply accompanying you on errands, every outing presents an opportunity for your pets to connect with others. These interactions not only fulfil their social needs but also enrich their overall well-being.
According to a recent survey* of pet owners carried out by Agria, 20% of owners have already made new friends thanks to their dog.
“It's important to understand that dogs thrive when they get to explore the great outdoors. While some of us are lucky enough to have spacious backyards, it's not always enough for our pets. Venturing out gives our pets the chance to discover new scents, meet new friends, or simply enjoy playtime with other dogs. These experiences are key to keeping them happy and healthy. It's not all that different for us humans. We thrive on companionship and interactions just as much as our pets do, and having a pet offers us an opportunity to meet new like-minded people.” says Robin Hargreaves, head vet Agria Petinsurance.
Curious about ways to connect with other pet owners in Ireland? Agria has some tips for you.
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Join dogs' groups: In Ireland, a lot of dog groups meet up regularly for playtime, train their dogs and even go on hikes. These groups offer a fantastic opportunity to socialise and engage with fellow dog owners. With summer approaching, many dog groups will be organising beach walks and picnics providing the perfect setting for you and your dog to enjoy the outdoors.
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Volunteer at animal rescues and shelters: Volunteering at animal rescues and shelters offers a chance to meet like-minded people and make a difference in the lives of animals. Whether you own a dog or not, lending a hand to these organisations can help build meaningful and lifelong connections.
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Local dog parks: Dog-friendly parks across Ireland are often bustling with pet owners, especially during lunch hours and weekends, as dog owners take their dogs out for walks. This is a great way to connect with local pet owners, enabling you to exchange ideas, share training tips, and discuss other pet-related information. So next time you venture out with your dog, seize the opportunity to explore a nearby dog-friendly park.
As for cat owners, while the social scene may differ slightly, they too can forge connections. Despite fewer reported encounters, 10% of cat owners have still met friends thanks to their cats.
Just like dog owners, cat owners can actively engage with other cat owners in various ways. Cat cafes have emerged as a trendy hotspot for cat lovers to meet and mingle. Additionally, cat rescue centres and online communities serve as invaluable platforms for connecting with fellow cat lovers, encouraging knowledge exchange, and a way to meet new people.
Pet owners across the world cherish the joy and companionship their animals bring. Whether they view them as best friends or beloved family members, pets play a crucial role in improving our well-being and nurturing meaningful connections.
*About the survey
The online survey was conducted in November 2023 by the research company Xtreme on behalf of Agria among 847 dog and cat owners.
Agria Petinsure: press@agriapetinsure.ie
www.agriapetinsure.ie
Agria specialises in pet insurance. A pioneer in the field, Agria insured its first domestic animal in 1890, its first dog in 1924 and its first cat in 1974. Originating from Sweden, Agria holds a prominent position as the leader in Scandinavia and extends its coverage to over a million animals across Europe. Present in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Germany, Agria has cultivated extensive partnerships with breeders, veterinarians, and animal owners. Agria Petinsure is now a prominent feature of the Irish pet insurance industry, offering comprehensive coverage for dogs and cats. Our mission is to provide the best care for pets and peace of mind for their owners by providing insurance solutions.
