Nine in 10 Aussies would leave romantic partner if they did not get along with household pet

Detailed summary

New research has revealed almost nine in 10 pet owners would ‘choose not to date or enter a relationship with someone’ who did not like their beloved household pet.

New research has revealed a staggering nine in 10 pet owners would “choose not to date or enter a relationship with someone” who did not like their beloved household pet.

The data was captured in RSPCA Pet Insurance’s recent Paws & Reflect Survey, which asked owners various questions about their emotional connection to their fur babies.

A whopping 86.8 per cent of participants declared they would not keep a love interest around if the love did not extend to their pet.

RSPCA Pet Insurance CEO Brad Smith said the results reflected the sentimental value household pets hold in the hearts of many Aussies.

“Clearly, when it comes to matters of the heart, pets are a deal-breaker for many Australians. With almost 87 per cent saying they would choose not to pursue a relationship with someone who didn’t like their pet, it’s clear just how deeply these bonds run,” he said.

“Pets offer unconditional love, companionship and loyalty, so it’s perhaps not surprising that Australians want a partner who embraces that important part of their lives, too.”

Mr Smith added that for many, “a pet isn’t an optional extra; they’re part of the package”, and that their future partners must be aware of that.

Other data from the survey found close to half of Aussie pet owners would take a pay cut if it meant they could take their dog to work.

Mr Smith said it raised an interesting question around employee retention opportunities for businesses.

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