AUSSIE PET OWNERS ARE CHANGING THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR PETS
- Bella Star
- May 23
- 2 min read
Australians are increasingly building their lives around their pets, with new research revealing many are changing travel plans, work routines, dating habits and social lives to accommodate their furry companions.
A new Pet Parenthood Report from Life360 surveyed 6,000 child-free pet owners globally, including 2,000 Australians, and found two-thirds of Aussie respondents say their pet is involved in almost every aspect of their life.
The findings highlight the rise of “pet-first” households, where dogs, cats and other animals are increasingly treated like family members rather than simply pets.
Aussie pet owners are prioritising pets over plans
The report found that almost a quarter of respondents globally had declined social invitations because they did not want to leave their pet alone.
Many now regularly bring pets to cafés, restaurants and even pubs, while 18 per cent of Australian respondents said they had changed their work arrangements, including working from home, to better care for their pet.
Nearly half also said they ensure their pets are included whenever visiting friends or family.
Pets are influencing travel and relationships
Travel plans are increasingly being shaped around pets, too.
Almost half of the respondents globally said they had taken their pet on holiday, while others changed their destinations or accommodation choices to make their trips more pet-friendly.
The research also found that 13 per cent of Australians admitted their pet had influenced their dating life, including dating only fellow animal lovers or judging partners based on how their pet reacted to them.
Globally, 86 per cent of respondents said they consider their pet to be like a child.
Pet technology is growing in popularity
The emotional attachment is also driving demand for pet tracking technology.
Nearly three in 10 Australian respondents said they already use technology to monitor their pet’s location and wellbeing.
Lauren Antonoff said pets are now deeply woven into everyday life.
“It’s not surprising to me that this study reveals that pets are deeply woven into everyday life in Australia, from daily routines to major life decisions,” she said.
