Radio and heating for lonely pets
A survey has revealed that dog and cat owners tend to leave the heating and radio on for their pets when they leave the house.
The study also found that over half of dog and cat owners will actively turn up the thermostat when they go out.
Men were found to be 20 per cent more likely than women to physically turn up the thermostat for their pet before leaving home. However, only one in three cat owners were likely leave the heating on, compared to 47 per cent of dog owners.
Meanwhile, those aged between 18 and 24 years old were the most likely age group to keep the heating on for their pet, and the East Midlands was the most likely region to bump up the thermostat.
While being kept warm, 62 per cent of East Midlands' dogs have the radio or TV left on for them when their owner leaves the house – the highest of any other region.
It was revealed that one in four cat owners and almost half of dog owners will leave the radio on, with BBC Radio 1 the most popular station of choice. The survey found that the reason behind this was to ensure their pet doesn't get lonely.
The survey was compiled by energy company E.ON, who has teamed up with TV personality Dr Scott Miller to provide pet owners with tips for when their cats and dogs are left home alone.
These include: exercise your pet well before leaving them, which will make them want to curl up and sleep while you're gone; leave warm blankets in your pet's bed to keep them cosy and warm; and provide lots of fresh water for your pet as heating can make them feel dry and dehydrated.
Fiona Stark, director of corporate affairs at E.ON, said: "Our research shows that owners are thinking carefully about their pet's comfort when they leave the house… Dr Scott's tips show that it's often the simple things that will ensure your pets stay as healthy as possible."
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.
