Pets have been crucial to boosting the spirits and motivation levels of their owners during lockdown, a new study has found.
As part of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home's new rescue pets campaign, the animal welfare charity spoke to 2,000 dog and cat owners about the joy of having a pet.
Four in 10, of the 2,000 owners surveyed, said that having a pet with them during these challenging times has provided consistency, as well as much-needed companionship. Meanwhile, 58% also said that having a pet helped to improve their motivation levels.
Ali Taylor, head of canine behaviour at Battersea, told The Independent: "We know there's evidence that owning a pet is good for mental health and tackling stress – and this is clearly really important at such a challenging time.
"We've heard so many amazing stories about how Battersea dogs and cats are now rescuing their owners – helping them feel less overwhelmed, distracting them from the news agenda."
Elsewhere in the study, researchers also found that people have been talking to their dogs and cats about problems at work, with one in 10 moaning about a colleague to their pet.
Speaking about the importance of pets during lockdown, Battersea ambassador, David Gandy, explained how his rescue dogs have been a lifeline for him. "Even though there have been frustrations with the necessary restrictions during lockdown, the dogs are blissfully oblivious to what is happening. They may indeed actually be enjoying it, with longer walks and more attention and playtime than ever before," David said.
"No matter where I am or what I'm doing, the three dogs are by my side, laying a head on my knee through hours of Zoom calls and helping me out in the land and garden from morning until night. Dogs provide us with so much and ask very little back, just a walk, some food and a cuddle. Now they really need our support to make sure they can continue to do that vital work."
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The best dog nail clippers to keep paws neat and tidy
Pet supplier Petstoreo was founded by two working veterinarians who have created an extensive range of high-quality and sustainable pet products, including these sturdy nail clippers.
An adjustable claw guard allows you to change the size of the clipping area to more precisely accommodate your dog's nails. It has a safety guard for storage and non-slip rubber handles.
Using an electric grinder is effective, but loud noises may faze more nervous dogs. This one has been designed to be extra-quiet to avoid causing any upset. It has a four-hour charge and two speeds; a slower one for trimming to length and another for filing smooth afterwards.
Another affordable pair, but guillotine-style instead. Their ergonomic design is easy to use and will get the job done efficiently, delivering sharp clean cuts.
This cordless nail grinder comes with five file attachments that can be switched out. Two sanding drums are also included to keep the files at their best. It’s one of the cheaper nail grinders we’ve seen, but bear in mind that it is battery-powered rather than rechargeable.
This cordless grinder has LED lights, providing a clearer view of claws. It has a two-hour charge and a low vibration.
Designed to clip just the tip of the nail, these clippers have a unique patent-pending conical blade that doesn't crush the nail. Recommended by veterinarians and groomers, they also come in a range of sizes so you can find the right one.
If you're nervous about cutting your pooch's nails for the first time, try these clippers. An anti-slip handle helps you maintain a firm grip so you can comfortably cut their nails, while a spring-loaded safety stop prevents over-cutting.
This electric nail grinder is suitable for all breeds. It has two speeds and three grinding ports, so you can choose the right setting for your pet. It also has a two-hour charge.
We love this handy nail trimmer, which comes with four practical LED lights. It also has a replacement blade and a nail trapper which helps catch nail clippings for an easy clean-up.
Designed to cut any type or thickness nail safely, this clipper set also comes with a handy file so you can get your dog's nails just right.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
