Lockdown has seen a boom in UK dog ownership, which has become a ‘pandemic puppy’ poo problem. Some people pick up the poo but leave the bag on the ground. Others just leave the poo to be trodden on.
Every day you see it and people are talking about it more and more. It is rising up the social agenda as a concerning topic of conversation and is becoming an issue across the UK. How long before councils take further action and letting your dog freely off the lead becomes a thing of the past like in some other countries.
When you break it down further; in 2021 there are 12 million dogs and the same number of cats in the UK. On average a dog deposits 340g of waste a day depending on the size of the dog. That equates approximately to 3,000 tonnes.
Lockdown highlighted positive links between pets and mental health
The pandemic lockdowns have brought about a period of adjustment between humans and their pets. Both in the UK and abroad, vets for example have been allowed to remain open as essential services, showing the importance of the link between pets and their owners. It was essential that if you were stuck at home and your dog or cat was sick, that you were able to visit a vet. Research has shown there is a strong connection between pets and peoples mental health. They are a part of the family and to many are their children.
In France, ‘adopting a pet’ was listed as a permitted reason to leave your home over the lockdown period. In Spain, people were allowed to go out to walk the dog. On the other hand, children were confined to their homes for 45 days. It was reported that neighbours were borrowing dogs just get out their front doors and stretch the legs.
At Pets Lets we are all about pets and London property. Therefore, we have quickly noted a real correlation between puppy and property prices. Human nature is to see an opportunity and make the most of it. If you want something, you have to ‘pay’ for it.
With property you research into locations, budget and type of property. With dogs you need to research into type of breed, costs, environment and where you live and kind of property. Do you have a garden and of course, if you rent, are you allowed a cat or dog
Walking the dog is not just about getting your four-legged friend some exercise and do its ‘business’. It also concerns you as a dog owner also getting some exercise, clearing your head which is good for your mental health. Dogs and mental health make a good combination.
Modern day life is stressful. City life can be fast paced. Walking the dog gives you the ability to ‘take a breather’, get away from your desk if you are part of the increasing number of people working from home.
What makes life easier is having your dog and cat by your side during those calls, whether they are sitting on your lap, on your desk or on their beds next to you. It brings comfort to you, especially when the meetings are back to back during the day. Others do not mind if they see a ‘furry face’ in the picture. It is no longer a case of being ‘unprofessional’ if your dog or cat or child is seen or heard in the background. Lockdown has made people generally more relaxed during working hours.
