New Study Reveals Heartwarming Findings About How Much People Truly Love Their Pets

A new study conducted by Talker Research on behalf of dog and cat food brand Nutrish found that pet parents love to spend time with them.

On September 26, 2024, the study found that U.S. parents really love their pets--sometimes more than friends, family, and work. Here's what you should know.

According to the press release, Talker Research surveyed 2,000 dog and cat owners on behalf of Nutrish to find out more about pet parents and how they feel and interact with their pets.

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The study discovered some very interesting findings, including 40% of pet parents admitting to bailing on family and friends so they could hang out with their pets instead. And it didn't seem like that was a rare occurrence for pet parents because, on average, they've admitted to doing this five times in their pet's lives.

We know that pet parents love their pets but this survey highlights just how much people love them. According to the survey, 97% of people said they agree that their pet deserves to shower them with love and appreciation.

"To show their love, pet parents chat with their four-legged friends an average of 11 times per day, as well as an average of ten cuddle sessions and ten instances of giving them scratches or a massage," the survey shared. Pet parents also play games and sing several times a day.

The report also found that when pet parents aren't with their pets, they're always on their minds. "Respondents dwell on their pet nearly every other waking hour (four times per day)," it noted.

Pet Parents Have an Idea of What Would be a 'Dream Day' With Their Pets

The survey also wanted to learn what a "dream day" would be that pet parents would set up for their kids. And the answers were adorable and proved how loved pets are.

The results of the most perfect "dream day" would start early in the morning, before 9 a.m. and 34% of pet parents would go on a road trip, 29% would choose a shopping spree at their pet's favorite store, and 27% would go for dinner at a pet-friendly restaurant and eat together from the pet-friendly menu.

“Though it may be hypothetical, designing a dream or special day for their pet clearly demonstrates the lengths pet owners are willing to go to keep their furry friends feeling loved and both happy and healthy,” said Dr. Preston Buff, a board-certified Animal Nutritionist working as a Principal Scientist of Nutrition and Animal Safety at Post Consumer Brands, which manufactures Nutrish.

“Pets bring so much joy into our lives and it’s only fair we reciprocate by giving them the quality time and quality food their owners know will make the difference.”