American Pet Products Association Releases Findings from the Fourth Volume of the COVID-19 Pulse Study of Pet Ownership During the Pandemic

(Stamford, CT) – American Pet Products Association (APPA) President & CEO Steve King announced the release of the fourth volume of the APPA COVID-19 Pulse Study of Pet Ownership During the Pandemic.  The first three volumes reflect research conducted in May, June, and September of 2020.  Volume four of The Study reveals research conducted in December and covers many aspects of pet ownership as well as consumer attitudes and trends as 2020 came to a close.

“As we continue to navigate life during a pandemic, pet owners recognize the emotional benefits of pet ownership such as helping to mitigate stress and providing joy, comfort and companionship during these challenging times,” said King. 

Consistent with results from the previous COVID Pulse Study, 82% (compared to 83% in September) of those surveyed report their pet ownership has not changed or been affected due to COVID-19. That percentage increases to 92% among Baby Boomers.  Sixty-four percent of pet owners say their pet spending has remained the same during the past month, with pet owners continuing to purchase pet food and supplies regularly.  More than half of pet owners consider themselves very brand loyal when it comes to pet supplies, and less than 20% plan to switch brands of pet food/supplies in order to save money.

Current data does show an increase in the percentage of respondents who are concerned about their finances (61%, up from 55% in September), as well as those who say the pandemic has significantly impacted their household financially. However, at this point that does not appear to translate to any notable changes in pet product purchasing behavior.

Volume four of the APPA COVID-19 Pulse Study of Pet Ownership During the Pandemic reveals additional trended insights into consumer attitudes and behaviors, including:

• Changes to pet ownership
• General attitudes toward the pandemic, including personal financial impact
• Current shopping behaviors
• Outlets visited
• Pet products purchased

APPA is offering the full results of each Study- Volumes One, Two, Three, and Four- free of charge to anyone interested.  For more information, visit the APPA website or contact marketresearchsupport@americanpetproducts.org.

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The American Pet Products Association (APPA) is the leading trade association serving the interests of the pet products industry since 1958.  APPA membership includes more than 1,100 pet product manufacturers, their representatives, importers and livestock suppliers representing both large corporations and growing business enterprises.  APPA's mission is to promote, develop and advance pet ownership and the pet product industry and to provide the services necessary to help its members prosper. APPA is also proud to grow and support the industry through the following initiatives: Pets Add Life (PAL), Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) Pets and Vets Program, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), Bird Enjoyment and Advantage Koalition (BEAK), and the Pet Care Trust.  Visit www.americanpetproducts.org for more information.