Survey highlights:
human-pet bond & responsible pet parenting
Devoted Kiwi pet owners are forging deeper connections with their furry companions, integrating them into many facets of daily life. PD Insurance’s recent ‘Your Pet and Your Pocket’ survey highlights a continued nationwide trend where pets are no longer just companions but cherished family members, marking the ongoing reshaping of lifestyles across New Zealand.
The survey, polling over 1,500 PD Insurance customers, reinforced a strong commitment from Kiwis to responsible pet ownership. New Zealanders are not only treating their pets as integral family members but are also making eco-conscious choices and taking proactive steps to protect local wildlife, setting a standard for pet parenting that balances love with environmental stewardship.
Pets as constant companions in everyday life
The survey underscores the deepening human-companion animal bond, with pets joining pet parents in a growing range of ‘human’ activities. A significant 36.3% of respondents said they’re more likely to bring their pet to a restaurant or café if it’s pet-friendly, reflecting a desire to include the pup in social outings. When asked whether they’d be more inclined to bring their pet to a pet-friendly workplace if the option were available, 29.8% said yes and 31.5% said they would sometimes, depending on the situation — a clear sign that many Kiwis love the idea of a furry office companion.
“Pets are no longer just waiting for us behind the front door; they’re part of our social and professional lives,” smiles PD Insurance COO Michelle Le Long. “It’s heartwarming to see Kiwis treating their pets like true family members, sharing café brunches or even brightening up the workplace with a professional pooch.” Of course, this also highlights how massively important training and socialisation for pets are from early on, as this helps ensure theirs and others safety when out and about.
The survey also revealed that 64.3% of pet owners factor their pet’s needs into major life decisions, such as changing jobs, moving house, or relocating. An additional 31.6% somewhat factor in their pets’ needs. “This shows how deeply pets influence our lives,” Le Long notes. “In many instances, though they might not have a say, we’re almost treating them as equal partners in life’s big moments.”
Balancing pet freedom with environmental responsibility
While the human-pet bond grows, the survey highlights a strong sense of responsibility among pet owners for fauna beyond domestic confines, with interest in and action towards protecting our unique environment. A notable 60.7% of respondents take consideration for local wildlife, including penguins, albatrosses, and native birds, when deciding whether to let their pets roam outdoors. This awareness reflects a commitment to balancing pet freedom with the preservation of Aotearoa’s biodiversity.
“Pets may be family, but they’re also animals with instincts that can impact our environment,” points out Le Long. “It’s encouraging to see so many pet parents thinking about our native wildlife and making good choices to protect it.”
Additionally, 80.3% of respondents have adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using biodegradable litter bags and natural, biodegradable pet grooming products, reducing their pets’ environmental footprint. “The shift towards sustainable pet care is inspiring,” Le Long adds. “From biodegradable products to considering wildlife, Kiwi pet owners are showing that loving your pet also means caring for the world they live in.”
Shift in pet parenting
“Our survey reinforces that pets are no longer just part of the household, they’re at the heart of our homes and communities,” Le Long says. “This deep bond continues to reshape how we live, work, and care for the world around us.”
Being a responsible pet owner today means more than just meeting your pet’s physical, emotional, and environmental needs, it also means being a good citizen of the planet. “It’s great to see pet owners so conscious of our native wildlife and doing their best to minimise their pet’s environmental footprint,” Le Long concludes.