Mars Petcare unveils industry insights in new report

An Increased Emotional Bond

• Through the challenges of the pandemic, pets have been a source of joy:
  • 80% of pet parents said they were able to spend more time than usual with their pets during the pandemic
  • 84% felt that the time together increased their emotional bond
  • 90% of pet parents say they want to spend as much time with pets going forward as they did last year.
• 63% would feel more comfortable at a social gathering with friends or family if they were able to bring their pets, and 42% say doing so would make their pets feel less lonely or anxious.

Pet Parents Want their Pets with Them: Work, Travel and Play

• 89% say it’s important they can continue to spend time with pets during the workday. For those who got a pet during the pandemic, that number rises to 95%.
• 72% of those working from home say they want to be able to take pets to work and, for those that are returning to work, 79% are concerned about pets’ health or well-being.
• 65% of pet parents say they’re likely to bring pets with them as they travel; 8 out of 10 Millennials and 85% of Gen Z pet parents prioritize finding pet-friendly accommodations when they travel.
• The majority of pet parents would feel more comfortable in public spaces like restaurant patios (59%) or outdoor stores or events (57%) if they were able to bring their pets.

Despite Growing Bonds, There are Challenges to Pet Ownership

• 70% noted the lack of pet-friendly housing is a limitation to adopting pets, with dogs (54%) and cats (38%) being particularly difficult to own in apartments.
• About 6 in 10 of Gen Z and Millennial pet parents have or are considering moving to a new home with more outdoor space for their pets.

Read the full report, here.