Thousands of us prefer spending time with our pets rather than than our partners, according to new research. It would seem that a quarter of Brits with children also said they prefer going out with their dog than their offspring. Meanwhile, two-fifths of Brits surveyed said owning a dog is a happy alternative to having children and one in four said that a dog fits more easily with their lifestyle. Eight out of 10 Brits said their dog is loving and attentive when out and about but only half said this was true of their partner. This is according to a survey carried out by the Kennel Club.
The Kennel Club is using its research to call for the likes of pubs and restaurants to improve their provision for dog owners. Around 40 per cent of Brits polled said they had problems finding places where their dog would be welcome while they ate. Half of those polled said they would like to see a wider range of eating establishments open their doors to dog owners.
As dog owners of a couple of Wire Haired Fox Terriers we know of the problems of eating out and having to leave the dogs behind on the boat.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said: "This research proves what a well-loved member of the family a dog is. Given how much we love spending time with our dogs, it is surprising that there are still so many businesses that refuse to allow dogs in their premises, but there is a real appetite for this to change."
The Kennel Club's Open for Dogs website lists more than 26,000 places throughout the UK and Europe that allow dogs inside.
Caroline Kisko, said "This makes it easier for dog owners to plan days out and holidays without having to leave their dogs behind." She added "There were more than 8 million dogs in the UK, and that those businesses which got involved with the Club’s campaign would be appealing to a massive customer base, this can only be a good thing in tough economic times."
The Open for Dogs website includes all places that are part of the UK’s largest database of places to stay and visit that will welcome you and your dogs. If you're looking for a dog friendly business, venue or day out you can register for free and start searching for your dog friendly venue.
Caroline Kisko, said "This makes it easier for dog owners to plan days out and holidays without having to leave their dogs behind." She added "There were more than 8 million dogs in the UK, and that those businesses which got involved with the Club’s campaign would be appealing to a massive customer base, this can only be a good thing in tough economic times."
Psychologist Dr Lance Workman from Bath Spa University explained the scientific basis for humans enjoying dogs’ company. "It is as though dogs were designed by nature to make us feel good. Dogs are the perfect antidote to many of the niggling mental and physical ailments that affect our busy day to day lives, so it is no wonder that they are so important to people. Not only do they give us unconditional affection but their presence lowers blood pressure and boosts the production of happy hormones, serotonin and dopamine, which make us feel happy and content. All of this helps people to be more positive and more productive, so there is certainly a lot to be said for businesses and workplaces embracing dogs as part of their working culture."
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