According to the latest figures from Statistics New Zealand, over 1.4 million households in New Zealand own one or more pet. This is a significant increase from the 1.3 million households that reported owning a pet in 2018. Pets are more than just companions; they are an important part of many family dynamics and can even help provide much-needed emotional support. But how does the demographic makeup of New Zealand impact pet ownership rates?
Type of Pet Owned
The type of pet owned tends to differ depending on the background and culture of the owners. For example, households with a high proportion of Maori or Pacific Islander members are more likely to own cats or small animals such as birds, guinea pigs and rabbits, while European-dominated households are more likely to own dogs or horses.
Age of Pet Owners
Pet ownership is also largely driven by the age of the household members. According to the 2019 NZ Pet Ownership Survey, the majority of pets in New Zealand are owned by people aged between 25 and 54. The 65+ age group was the second largest pet owning demographic, owning on average two or three pets. Conversely, people aged 18-24 are less likely to own a pet.
Location
Where you live in New Zealand makes a huge difference to the types of pets people own. People living in rural areas are more likely to own horses, sheep, goats and cattle. These animals are primarily used as working animals, and are considered a valuable asset to any farming business. In urban areas, the majority of pet owners own cats and dogs.
Cost of Pet Ownership
The cost of pet ownership has a significant impact on pet ownership. The cost of food, vaccinations, vet bills and other pet-related expenses can add up quickly. For those on a limited budget, it may not be feasible to own a pet, particularly if the pet requires costly medical treatments.
Pet Ownership Benefits
Despite the cost of ownership, there are many benefits to owning a pet. Pets can provide companionship, emotional support and even help to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of the owner. Pets have been known to reduce stress and anxiety, and can even help to reduce loneliness. Additionally, studies have shown that pet owners tend to be happier and more social than those without pets.
Summary
The demographic makeup of New Zealand is a major factor in the type of pet that is owned, as well as the age and location of pet owners. Pets can provide many valuable benefits, but the cost of ownership should also be taken into consideration.
Overall, the impact of demographics on pet ownership in New Zealand is clear. With so many pet-owning households and the many benefits that owning a pet can provide, it is clear to see why so many New Zealanders are investing in the joys of pet ownership.
- Type of Pet Owned – The type of pet owned tends to differ depending on the background and culture of the owners.
- Age of Pet Owners – The majority of pets in New Zealand are owned by people aged between 25 and 54, with the 65+ age group the second largest pet owning demographic.
- Location – Rural areas are more likely to own working animals, while urban areas are more likely to own cats and dogs.
- Cost of Pet Ownership – The cost of food, vaccinations, vet bills and other pet-related expenses can add up quickly.
- Pet Ownership Benefits – Pets can provide companionship, emotional support and even help to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of the owner.
In conclusion, the impact of demographics on pet ownership in New Zealand is significant. Factors such as age, location and cost all play a role in deciding whether or not to own a pet. However, the benefits of pet ownership should not be overlooked, as they can provide a great source of comfort, companionship and emotional support.
Pet ownership, while potentially costly, is an investment worth making.
