Animal love - Why more and more people are keeping pets

Result

Two out of five German citizens regularly (at least once a week) spend time with their pets. Over the last two decades, the relationship between German citizens and their animal companions has changed fundamentally. In 2013, it was around one in three, whereas 20 years ago not even one in four people spent their free time with animals.

Reasons

One important reason for their increasing popularity is the growing affection and appreciation for pets in society. For many people, pets are more than just animals - they have become a kind of family member, partner or child substitute. The emotional bond leads to the need to spend one's free time with their animal companions, whether it's going for a ride, stroking the cat on the sofa or playing with the dog in the park. In addition, various studies show positive health consequences of human-animal interaction, e.g. more exercise, reduced stress, improved mood or more social relationships - often with other pet owners. Other reasons include loneliness/society, a need for security, taking on responsibility, a hobby or even the fulfilment of a long-held wish.

Forecast

Pets are booming. In the past ten years alone, the number of pets in German households has increased by more than six million to currently over 34 million and there is no end in sight to this trend. In the future, we can expect to see an increased focus on animal welfare, as not every pet can and should be kept everywhere and by everyone.
The increasing number of pets will also have an economic impact. The pet industry will continue to grow and companies will offer innovative products and services for pet owners. This will not only boost the economy, but also create new employment opportunities in areas such as animal care, animal health and animal behaviour.