Report highlights ‘blind spots’ among pet owners
The report found that one in six owners believe their pet needs to lose weight.
From forgoing basic research to lacking key knowledge about nutrition and exercise, findings from the PDSA’s annual Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report have revealed significant knowledge gaps among UK pet owners.
According to the report, 21 per cent of pet owners admit to doing no research before buying or rescuing their pet. The veterinary charity warns this lack of preparation means many owners may be taking on pets without understanding whether a species fits their lifestyle or how to provide appropriate care.
Moreover, the report reveals only one in six pet owners looked into the cost of ownership before taking on a pet, a factor the PDSA says is increasingly important as the cost of living and veterinary fees continue to rise.
The report also highlighted concerns around pet health and exercise. It found that one in three (32%) dog owners walk their dog for 30 minutes a day or less, while one in six owners believe their pet needs to lose weight - a figure the PDSA believes may be hugely underestimated.
To help owners close these knowledge gaps, the charity has launched the Pet Check Challenge. This online resource takes the form of a quiz, whereby owners answer 10 questions about their pet’s wellbeing. The charity hopes the quiz will reveal how much owners actually know about their pets’ basic needs and uncover practical ways to improve the care they provide.
PDSA vet Anna Ewers-Clark said: “We know that people love their pets and want to give them the best possible life they can. To help make that a reality, we want to help equip pet owners to be the very best pet owner they can be. By shining a light on the blind spots identified by this year’s PAW Report, we want to support pet owners with the information and knowledge they need that will help them and their pets.
“By improving what people know about pets, helping them understand what their pet needs and supporting them to turn that knowledge into action, we can make a real difference to the lives of our beloved pets and help them enjoy healthier, happier lives.”
Baroness Hayman of Ullock, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, added: “Pets are an incredibly important part of our society and for millions of people they provide companionship, comfort, happiness and support through some of life's most difficult moments.
“With that relationship comes responsibility. Every pet deserves to have their welfare needs understood and met, and owners need access to the right information and support to help them provide the best possible care.”
The PAW Report is the UK’s largest assessment of pet wellbeing. To read the latest findings, visit the PDSA website.
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
