How pet parents spent their money on Valentine’s Day

With total Valentine’s Day gift spending predicted to reach a record $14.2 billion (€13.2B) this year, we examine the number of people willing to spend money buying gifts for their beloved pets in the US, UK and Canada. 

North America

A 2024 survey from the National Retail Foundation in the US suggested that while consumers prioritize gifts for partners and spouses this year, they are not neglecting the other special relationships in their lives. For example, although consumers between the ages of 35 and 44 spend the most on their romantic partners, the survey suggested that they are also the age group planning to splurge the most on gifts for pets. 

According to January 2024 polling data of nearly 9,000 respondents from internet marketing service firm Caddle and the Retail Council of Canada, 4.3% of those surveyed stated that they specifically purchase pets, pet supplies, and grooming products for Valentine’s Day. 

UK

Pet food retailer Jollyes found that 30.4% of British pet owners have bought a Valentine’s gift for their pet in the past.

According to a recent survey of 1,180 pet parents, people aged 25 to 34 are most likely to buy their pets a gift today. Furthermore, men are more likely to buy their pets a gift on 14th February than women (34.81% versus 26.84%).

Geographically, pet parents based in Greater London are more likely to buy a present for their companions (48.32%). The capital is followed by Belfast (39%) and West Midlands (35%).

Which pets receive more gifts?

In the UK, dogs are more likely to receive a V-Day gift (33.74%) than cats (27.95%). Additionally, 25% of birds and less than 10% of fish are likely to receive any gifts, if at all.

According to Jollyes, most people who buy Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets are spending between £10 (€11.7/$12.6) and £25 (€29.4/$31.5), with 57% of pet owners falling into this bracket. 

Only a small proportion of pet owners (1.6%) spend more than £50 (€58.8/$63).