It’s Rover over conservation for majority of B.C. pet owners: poll

Nine in 10 provincial utility customers leave heat and lights on for furry pals

VANCOUVER When it comes to saving money and energy conservation, an overwhelming majority of pet owners will choose their furball’s comfort instead.

It could be costing them as much as $400 a year, according to B.C. Hydro.

In a survey commissioned by Hydro, 90 per cent of respondents said they were conscientious energy conservers, turning off unused lights and electronics when they left home.

But 90 per cent also said they leave on the heat for their pets in winter. In summer, 57 per cent leave on the air conditioning for their pets. And 86 per cent leave lights on when leaving home so their pets can see their way around.

“When it comes to the comfort of their pets, people view the comfort of their cat or dog as more important,” B.C. Hydro spokeswoman Tanya Fish said.

Other common electricity-sucking appliances left on include fans (59 per cent), radio or music (47 per cent) and television (40 per cent). Also, 20 per cent said they record a show for their pet to watch.

“That 40 per cent leave their TV on, we found this surprising,” Fish said. So is the fact that 20 per cent of people record a specific show for their pet, she added.

If you must keep your animal warm or cool, and entertained, Hydro has some suggestions.

“Obviously British Columbians love their pets,” Fish said. “They can look at little things they can do, like turn down the thermostat two degrees, that reduces heating costs by around five per cent.

“And there are more options with smart home products and smart plugs, if you leave home during daylight your can still wait until dark to turn on the lights or TV for your dog remotely by smartphone.”

Also, Fish said, switching incandescent bulbs to high-efficiency Energy Star LEDs lessens lighting costs by 75 per cent.

B.C. Hydro is offering rebates on certain energy-efficient products, including LEDs, until Nov. 16. The list of eligible products can be found at powersmart.ca.

GREGORY BULL/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS/FILES By keeping their pets warm and entertained, B.C. Hydro customers could be shorting themselves by as much as $400 a year, according to a survey commissioned by the utility.