We are delighted to share a new blog from Paw Post UK, who reviewed a fantastic survey completed by Animed Direct customers on their pet eating and exercise habits over the Christmas period.
The poll found out that two-thirds fed their dog human food at Christmas with roast turkey proving most popular at 41%, followed by veg (14%), beef (11%) pigs in blankets (5%) and cheese at 2%.
Worryingly, a small proportion of dog owners, 3%, took their dog out only every other day during the holidays and 7% didn’t take their dog for a walk.
One in seven owners exercised their pet for less than an hour, 35% for an hour, 33% for between one and two hours and 7% for more than two hours.
Nearly one in ten, 9%, said they thought their dog had put on weight over Christmas.
Over half, 53%, said their pet was part of their New Year fitness plans
Animed Direct vet Shona Scott said: “One of the reasons people get a dog is so they can enjoy walking so I do find it surprising that people didn’t walk them at all. Even older dogs who can only shuffle along enjoy being out, and exercise helps prevent behavioural problems where dogs can become destructive if they are bored. It’s important for their mental health and stimulation that they get outside and move and sniff around, and for their physical and emotional health too. A healthy, trim dog is a happy dog.”
