Two-thirds of dog owners mark their pets’ birthdays
Almost two-thirds (64%) of dog owners celebrate their pets’ birthday or other major milestones, such as their gotcha day, new research reveals.
The research from online greeting card experts Moonpig, which polled 1,000 pet owners, shows that Gen-Z and millennials are most likely to throw their pets a birthday party with 83% and 79% saying they have done this, respectively. While older generations (aged 55+) less likely to celebrate their pet’s birthday, with just 39% saying they had done this.
In addition, the data reveals that 47% of Brits have bought a greeting card for their pet, with two thirds of those aged between 25-34 most likely to buy their pet a greeting card, closely followed by those aged between 45-54 (48%) and 35-44 (43%). The research finds that 58% of women admit they were likely to include their pet’s name when signing a card, compared to just 46% of men.
Moonpig’s data shows that pet owners spent an average of £80 on birthday presents for their companions, equating to £1.7bn a year across the UK.
The data reveals that Brits celebrate their pets’ birthday by buying a new toy (72%), buying a gourmet treat or special food (64%), giving extra walks, playtime, or affection (63%), buying a comfortable item such as a bed or blanket (63%), buying a practical item such as lead or grooming tool (55%), posting about their pet’s birthday or milestone on social media (57%), buying clothing (52%), holding a party for their pet (50%), included their pet’s name when signing a greeting card (50%), and giving a custom-made or personalised gift (49%).
When looking at who were the most gift-giving pet parents, both males and females share affection for their pets equally, with 58% having bought their pet a gift or taken them for more walks or playtime.
When asked why they celebrate their pet’s birthdays, 45% of Brits said it was because they are considered a part of the family. Other main reasons Brits are so keen to celebrate their pets were because they deserve to be treated (42%), to show them they love them (40%), and it makes their pets happy (37%).
One in three Brits revealed that throwing their pet a party was a way to create lasting memories and one in eight said throwing their pet a party gave them content to share on social media.
Sarah-Jane Porter, Moonpig’s Global Design and Licensing Director, said: “We know how much it means to celebrate milestone moments with our loved ones, and as a nation of pet lovers it’s not surprising we want to extend the love to our furry companions too.
“Over the last few years we’ve committed to building on and expanding our range of personalised cards to and from the pet as we know they are just as much a part of the family as anyone and celebrating the moments in their life is equally as important.”
