There were several reasons cited by Gen Z and Millennials who had given up their pet , including a change in living arrangements and financials obstacles , and changes in working arrangements was also high on the list .
The research also showed that 40 % of owners don ’ t have pet-friendly offices and an additional 11 % unsure .
Last year , in light of the slowly lifting lockdown restrictions , we wrote an article to highlight the huge benefits to employees in a pet-friendly workspace .
Since then , as you will know , there has been a significant shift in people heading back into offices and workspaces – some with more flexible hours and patterns – so where has that left our pets ?
Newly released data from the Pet Food Manufacturers ’ Association ( PFMA ) highlighted that pet relinquishment figures are concerning . The Gen Z and Millennial demographics represent 53 % of those owning new pets – sadly , 23 % of people in these age groups have been unable to keep their pet and 71 % of all relinquishments can be attributed to this demographic .
There were several reasons cited by Gen Z and Millennials who had given up their pet , including a change in living arrangements and financials obstacles , and changes in working arrangements was also high on the list . The research also showed that 40 % of owners don ’ t have pet-friendly offices and an additional 11 % unsure .
Nicole Paley , Deputy Chief Executive at PFMA , said : “ At the PFMA , we believe there is a need to boost the provision of pet-friendly policies at work and in rental accommodation . There are some excellent campaigns focused on this . We also need to ensure that potential pet owners are aware of the full implications of pet ownership and the significant responsibility that comes with a new family member .”
There are some gradual , anecdotal shifts in the perception of having a dog-friendly office , with many realising the need to adapt to a new way of working , and the great benefits that pets have in the office .
Some Of The Key Benefits Include :
1 . Stroking a dog has been proven to reduce stress , whether the dog belongs to you or not
Just the act of stroking and petting a dog has a calming effect on most people . It relaxes us , giving us a little burst of the bonding hormone , oxytocin . Just feeling that soft fur also lowers our heart rate and blood pressure .
2 . Pets are a compelling source of social support for us
Pets , especially dogs , are very loyal and nonjudgemental . They show you unconditional love , even if you ’ re having a bad day or feeling down . Dogs always respond well to a few kind words or a stroke , with enthusiasm and happiness , which can be very infectious . We feel rewarded by our actions , raising dopamine – the reward hormone – reducing cortisol , the stress hormone .
3 . Dogs encourage outgoing and sociable behaviour
Dogs can be an ice breaker – most people can ’ t resist petting or talking to dogs and in that British reserved way , it ’ s much easier talking to the dog before the owner ! This positive behaviour
THE GEN Z AND MILLENNIAL DEMOGRAPHICS REPRESENT 53 % OF THOSE OWNING NEW PETS
40 % OF OWNERS DON ’ T HAVE PET-FRIENDLY OFFICES AND AN ADDITIONAL 11 % UNSURE
November / December 2022 | MORE THAN A PET | 19