Bill Bailey supports Kennel Club Charitable Trust cost of living campaign
Cuddles with canine companions lift cost of living spirits, our new research reveals, with dogs providing a lifeline to Brits as they battle the cost of living crisis into winter.
On average, British dog owners say their dog makes them smile or laugh 37 times per week, whilst others state a reliance on their four-legged friends for companionship, emotional support and even exercise, with 81% moving more since having owned a dog. Our research, which spoke to 2000 UK adults who own at least one dog revealed that 58% have made personal sacrifices for their dog in the past and over a third (38%), say that the cost of living crisis has led them to make specific sacrifices so as not to have an impact on their dog.
These caring pawrents have admitted they would go without food items so they could afford dog food (37%), with 31% saying they would incur higher heating bills to keep their dog warm. Sadly, one in ten say they have already has to give up their dog, as they felt this awful situation just wasn't fair on the animal.
Our Chair of Trustees, Bill King says: "For those really struggling at the moment, there are pet food banks across the UK - one of which we have funded - where owners can go for support in their time of need."
Bill continues: "We are thrilled to be taking part in the Big Give this year for the first week in December, and thanks to two very generous donors every £1 you give will be doubled, meaning you can 'Double the Pawprint' for dogs in need. After the Big Give, we'll be running our campaign through to the end of December, to raise as much money as we can for our canine friends this Christmas. Just £5 will make a huge difference for a dog in rescue this festive season."
Positively, 69% of those surveyed believe having a family dog has helped their children cope mentally during the cost of living crisis. Of these individuals, 43% shared that their dog can sense when they're upset and almost half (49%) love that their dog stays by their side for companionship. Another 52% said simply playing with their dogs helps to relieve stress.
We're thrilled that comedian actor and musician Bill Bailey is supporting our campaign, which aims to raise a minimum of £40,000 during the month of December. Bill, owner of many animals shares: "I think being around animals is good for the soul, and that caring for a dog can actually make you a better person."
And Bill isn't alone. Our research shows that a huge 87% of British dog owners agree that having a dog makes them a better version of themselves, learning traits like patience (52%), care (53%) and empathy (33%) from their canine companions.
Through our Christmas Campaign we are hoping to raise much needed funds to continue our work helping digs in need. This year, we've seen incredible public support, with a huge £257,000 raised for dogs caught up in the Ukraine conflict and almost £100,000 has been distributed through the Chelsea & Mr French Fund, which supports dogs and their owners in vulnerable situations...The latter led to the funding of a sensory garden for dogs living with homeless people, many of whom have never felt grass beneath their paws before.
Speaking about further support, Mary Wakeman, CEO at Refuge4Pets comments: 'The funding we have received from the KCCT over the last year has meant so much to our organisation - and its amazing how generous people can be at Christmastime! We are delighted to have been able to pay vital veterinary fees for dogs escaping challenging and often dangerous situations, thanks to the Trusts support."
You can give to our Christmas Campaign here, or by hitting any of the donate buttons on the website.