The statistic comes as 72 per cent of pet owners revealed that they had experienced a negative impact to their mental health as a result of pet ownership. Pet owners reported worry about their pet’s health (41 per cent), financial pressures (26 per cent) and difficulty arranging care when away (25 per cent).

 

Approximately one in six pet owners said that feeling overwhelmed by care responsibilities had negatively impacted their wellbeing.

 

Battersea found that 27 per cent wouldn’t know, or weren’t sure, where to get support if they were struggling with their mental wellbeing and pet ownership. Fifty-seven per cent said they would turn to family and friends, 39 per cent said they’d speak to a GP and 39 per cent would utilise NHS mental health services.

 

Meanwhile 27 per cent said they would consider seeking support from an animal welfare organisation.

 

Frances Drury, head of advice and support at Battersea, said: “This research reflects what we see every day at Battersea: pets bring real joy, but looking after them isn't always easy. Worries about your pet's health, the cost of care, sudden changes in circumstances or housing, and challenges with behaviour can all be difficult to navigate. 

 

“At Battersea, we want to make sure people think carefully about these potential challenges before they acquire a pet and, if they are struggling have access to the advice and support they need to give their pets the best possible care. That might mean helping someone understand their pet's behaviour, providing guidance on caring for an animal, or pointing them towards other resources. Supporting people is an important part of supporting pets, and we're here for both”.

 

As part of its mental health initiative, Battersea introduced travellers at King’s Cross Station to some of the dogs they had rescued. Commuters’ reactions have since been shared on the charity’s social platforms.