While this is not a paraplanning story, the press release shocked me, so I’m using my editor’s prerogative to run it at this time of year. Rob Kingsbury, editor, PP.
The cost-of-living crisis and return to office working has led to nearly one million dogs being re-homed in the UK, new research from Novuna Business Cash Flow has shown.
A survey of 2,000 UK adults revealed that 10% have re-homed their dogs within the last year and another 11% have considered it.
The return to traditional office settings, following the widespread work from home movement in the wake of the pandemic, has been a key driver. More than a fifth (22%) attribute their decision to the reduction in opportunities to work remotely, with just 17% of UK workplaces currently allowing pets.
Financial pressures are also taking their toll, with dog day care estimated to cost up to £1,500 annually.
The research also found that more men have chosen to re-home their dog than women.
John Atkinson, head of commercial business at Novuna Business Cash Flow, said: “The data we’ve collected is a stark indicator of the stress that pet owners are facing in today’s economic climate. Are businesses doing enough to help their employees by offering flexible work arrangements, pet-friendly policies, even allowing pets in the workplace. This could be key to keeping families and their pets together.”
