Rover launches doggy ‘Affirmation Cards’, helping a nation of stressed-out pooches’ to paws and relax
London, 30th April: New research from Rover.com, the world’s largest online marketplace for loving pet care, has today revealed that over half (57%) of British dog owners believe their increasing stress levels are having a negative impact on their dogs.
Whether it’s the inevitable pressure of work (61%), stretched finances (62%) or simply the chaos of family life (52%) bothering Brits, nearly two out of three (65%) claim to be feeling stressed more frequently than ever before. And worryingly, a whopping 49% agree that the more stressed out they feel, the more nervous their pooch will act in return.
Yet proving they really are man’s best friend, 30% claim their dog refuses to leave their side when they’re stressed out, becoming increasingly protective (26%) and affectionate (41%) to their owners. But while it seems instinctive for pups to recognise when their pet parent is feeling agitated (79%), the same can’t always be said for us humans. Nearly a third (30%) admit to missing the signs that their dogs are stressed, failing to understand the cause of it (34%), and even feeling helpless with how to address it (40%).
In light of this, and in hopes of further educating pet parents on the impact their stress can have on their pets, Rover has created a new deck of ‘af-furmation cards’ – offering a fun, playful tool for responsible pet parenthood. Not only do they help owners recognise signs of stress in dogs, they also provide simple solutions and mantras to calm them when life gets a little ruff! Download them FREE by visiting: https://www.rover.com/uk/blog/manifestation-cards/
However, we humans aren’t always to blame, as it’s proven that dogs have stress triggers of their own, with loud noises (62%), being around new people (32%) and raised voices (42%) being amongst the most common according to their owners.
The top 10 most common signs of stress pet owners see in dogs include:
- A tucked-up body or tail (31%)
- Ear pinning (ears flat against their head) (30%)
- Shaking or trembling (24%)
- Panting or salvation (24%)
- Pacing (23%)
- Acting like your shadow (21%)
- Hyperactivity (20%)
- “Shaking off” when not wet (20%)
- Excessive yawning (19%)
- Crying (19%)
Although they could be barking up the wrong tree, when it comes to trying to solve doggy stress triggers, over half (53%) believe long walks, playtime (40%) and playing calming nature sounds (16%) are some of the most effective techniques. 15% of owners even use lavender sprays and behavioural therapy (16%) to unleash their dog’s inner zen. In fact, dog owners have admitted to spending an average of £158 on calming pet products and treatments, with some going as far as planning a ‘Puppy Pamper day’ for their pooch (19%).
Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist comments: Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist comments: “Many things can cause a dog to feel stress, including uncertainty, fear of noises, places, people, other dogs or animals, certain social environments, or even as a result of being left alone. Usually, this stress is due to a negative association that has occurred in the past, a lack of confidence, or because the dog has become overwhelmed due to a lack of experience with the situation they find themselves in. A dog’s natural temperament, determined by their breeding and genetics, can also play a factor in whether they are more likely to experience stress or anxiety.”
“In order to overcome any stress that your dog may be experiencing, it is vital to first identify your dog’s ‘trigger’, and then aim to build your dog’s confidence through positive experience and exposure. Observing your dog carefully for signs of stress, creating space for them to be able to relax, and keeping a distance from any triggers may also be helpful whilst working through any issues. You can also try to gradually build their confidence through positive reinforcers such as tasty treats, their favourite toy, or using praise. If signs of stress continue to persist, consult an accredited behaviourist to help assist with this process.”
To find out more, visit https://www.rover.com/uk
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Notes to Editors
A Rover survey of 1,000 UK dog parents conducted via Pollfish in April 2024.
About Rover:
Founded in 2011 and operating in ten countries, Rover® is the world’s largest online marketplace for loving pet care. Rover connects dog and cat owners with loving pet care whenever they need it. Millions of services have been booked on Rover, including pet sitting, dog walking, in-home boarding, drop-in visits, and doggy day care. To learn more about Rover, please visit https://www.rover.com/uk/ or see our press room here: https://www.rover.com/uk/blog/press/
For more information, please contact: rover@brands2life.com / 020 7592 1200