SANTA PAWS IS COMING TO TOWN
£ 162M lavished on dogs’ gifts
DOG owners are set to splash out £ 162million on their mutts this Christmas as a thank you for their company during 2020.
Almost three- quarters will be treating their animals during the festive season – spending an average of £ 21.92 per pet.
With an estimated 10.1million dogs in the UK, that means 7.37m will receive presents such as treats ( 72%), soft toys ( 63%), and bones and chews ( 47%).
Other popular gifts include a ball ( 31%) and a new collar ( 19%), according to a survey of 2,000 owners by Guide Dogs. Dr Helen Whiteside, of the charity, said: “The research shows we like to treat our dogs like a member of the family and many lucky animals will be spoilt rotten by their adoring owners this year.”
Guide Dogs train more than 1,000 pooches – helping the clever canines provide a unique service to people in the UK who suffer from sight loss.
The group has seen online sales up 50% on last year – and 75% of people quizzed admitted their dogs had helped them more than they could have imagined during lockdown.
Dog owners in London will spend the most (£ 34.33), followed by the north west (£ 23.14), north east (£ 22.94) and West Midlands (£ 22.87).
The survey, carried out via Onepoll, also revealed more than one in 10 will even splash out more on their dog than their partner.
Dr Whiteside added: “Christmas is a special time of the year and millions will have their pets by their side ensuring they have a wonderful day.”
TIME FOR GIVING: Owners love their dogs