Press release -
Vet vs Google: Pet owners turning to Google to diagnose pet health
A new report reveals UK pet owners are increasingly anxious about their pet’s health, with over one in five (21 percent) experiencing daily worries. Research found a reliance on Google for panicking pet owners, with many turning to the internet to diagnose their pets' health concerns and to seek online pet advice (88 percent).
The survey conducted by Post Office highlights the growing concerns of UK pet owners regarding their pets' health and the rising costs of pet care. The data sheds light on the emotional and financial stress experienced by pet owners across the country.
21 percent of pet owners admit to worrying about their pet's health and wellbeing every day. This concern is particularly pronounced among younger pet owners aged 18-34 (23 percent). The majority (71 percent) of respondents reported feeling stressed about the costs associated with pet care, including vet visits, treatments, and check-ups - despite this, over 40 percent (41 percent) do not have pet insurance in place.
When it comes to the top causes of panic, pet owners cite animals eating something they shouldn't (35 percent), health issues (32 percent) and changes in behavior (31 percent) as the most common concerns.
Pet panics are leading many to turn to Google to diagnose their worries. Google searches for dogs eating chocolate increased by 143% over the Easter period (20th-26th April 2025) compared to the yearly average1. However, over a third (33 per cent) admit this leads to increased anxiety rather than reassurance.
With daily worries about pets' wellbeing and the financial strain as a major stressor, there is a growing demand for affordable and accessible solutions such as comprehensive pet insurance plans and a 24/7 vet advice line. 80 percent said they would feel more at ease with access to an 24/7 online vet in pet emergencies.
Paul Paddock, Product and Pricing Director at Post Office commented: “The data highlights the understandable panics many pet owners face when looking after their furry friends, from eating something they shouldn’t, changes in their behavior, to leaving them home alone. We know that ensuring our pets are healthy and happy can come with emotional and financial stresses. The internet can be a great source of information for concerned owners, however with so much misinformation online, it’s easy to incorrectly diagnose your pet and worry. Whilst it can be a useful resource, the internet should never replace professional advice.
“We are committed to supporting pet owners with accessible services, which is why all our plans from dog insurance, cat insurance, to rabbit insurance give you access to 24/7 support with our PetCall advice line. Pets are family, and we aim to provide peace of mind for owners.”
Find out what to do if your pet suddenly falls ill, seems distressed or goes missing.
ENDS
NOTES:
The survey was conducted by Censuswide with 2,002 UK pet owners aged 18 and above between March 21-25, 2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
¹ Google Trends data for the search term "dog ate chocolate" from May 12th, 2024, to May 11th, 2025, explore.
About the Post Office
- With over 11,500 branches, Post Office has the biggest retail network in the UK, with more branches than all the banks and building societies combined.
- Post Office is helping anyone who wants cash to get it whichever way is most convenient. Partnership with over 30 banks, building societies and credit unions means that 99% of UK bank customers can access their accounts at their Post Office.
- Cash withdrawals, deposits and balance enquiries can be made securely and conveniently over the counter at any Post Office; and the biggest investment by any organisation or company in the last decade is being made to safeguard 1,400 free-to-use ATMs across the UK.
- Post Office is simplifying its proposition for Postmasters with a focus on its cash and banking; mails and parcels; foreign exchange; and; bill payments services.
- Research has found that visits to the Post Office help drive another 400 million visitors to other shops, restaurants and local businesses equating to an estimated £1.1 billion in additional revenue for High Street businesses.
- 99.7% of the population live within three miles of a Post Office; and 4,000 branches are open seven days a week.
