Woman’s Best Friend?
The research, designed to explore the role small dogs play in women’s lives, reveals that women are turning to their four-legged friends for emotional support with one in three cuddling their pet to cheer themselves up instead of talking to their partner.
Furthermore, it seems men face being kicked off the sofa in favour of a furry substitut as one in three women say they would rather watch TV with their small dog than partner.
Even the prime spot on the mantelpiece is dominated by four-legged family members. A quarter of women say a picture of their small dog now sits in spots formerly held by family photos.
Small dogs command the lion’s share of women’s budget for gifts too. A quarter of women confess to spending more on treating their small dogs than themselves.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
