Latest news with #Rover.com
Scotsman
15 hours ago
- General
- Scotsman
Applications open for The Great British Pup Crawl
Pub garden season is officially here, and the world's largest online marketplace for loving pet care, has today opened ap-paw-lications for the opportunity of the summer: 'The Great British Pup Crawl'. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Dubbed the 'best job in the world', Rover is on the hunt for one lucky Public House Officer who will em-bark on a nationwide mission with their canine companion to sniff out the most dog-friendly pub in the UK. This dream position will see the chosen candidate and their four-legged sidekick paid £6,000 (plus expenses) to do a four-week road trip in July, visiting up to 110 pubs and rating them on their dog-friendly credentials – from doggy water stations to pet treats at the bar. Requirements: Tell us your news A confident and sociable dog owner with at least one well-behaved dog Valid driver's license and willingness to travel nationwide Strong communication skills for documenting and sharing experiences Social media savvy – able to capture engaging content with active social accounts Must love pub culture To apply or find out more about this role, please visit. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This unique listing comes as new research from Rover has today revealed that a whopping 90% of British dog owners say their pooch is their 'dream colleague', ranking them above their siblings (66%), partner (53%), and even their best friends (45%). What's more, 81% say their dog lifts their mood better than any co-worker could, attributing this to their dog's calming presence (61%) and ability to make them smile – even on a bad day (60%). This exciting position appears to tap into a growing national dream, with 82% claiming their 'dream job' would involve working with animals and travelling to new places (90%). In fact, two thirds (66%) say they would trade their current job in a heartbeat for one that pays them to hang out with dogs all day. When it comes to 'dream jobs', being a dog walker/sitter topped the list for 30% of Brits*, closely followed by a pub tester (22%) and vet (20%). Meanwhile, 1 in 10 still have lingering childhood dreams of being an actor (9%) or sportsperson (8%). Brits' top 10 dream jobs Dog walker/sitter (30%) Pub tester (22%) Vet (20%) Photographer (15%) Entrepreneur (13%) Food critic (13%) Pet trainer (13%) Influencer (12%) Actor (9%) Sportsperson (8%) Pub or café owner (8%) Adem Fehmi, Rover's Canine Behaviourist comments: 'Taking your pooch to the pub can be a fantastic way to bond, socialise, and keep them mentally stimulated - so long as the environment suits their needs and temperament. Look for pubs with a calm, quiet atmosphere and both indoor and outdoor dog-friendly spaces, ideally away from busy entrances or walkways.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The best spots will go the extra mile: think water bowls, poo bags, dog beds, even treats or a specially curated pup menu. Friendly, dog-aware staff make all the difference too. And remember - while it's great when venues provide extras, you know your dog best, so always come prepared and choose locations where your pup will feel comfortable and welcome.'
Scotsman
06-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Scotland's mindful dog walk for Mental Health Awareness Week
To mark Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May), has joined forces with Mental Health Mates to launch a series of mindful dog walks across the UK – highlighting the powerful role pets play in supporting emotional wellbeing, and helping more people access the comfort that canine companionship can bring. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The initiative comes as new research reveals just how much our dogs do for us – especially during life's toughest moments. Whether it's navigating mental health struggles, coping with grief, or bouncing back from burnout, a whopping 84% of UK pet owners say their dog is the one they turn to most for comfort during the hard times. For some, that connection goes even deeper. One in five (21%) believe their dog has saved their life after significantly improving their mental health, with half (50%) saying their dog gives them a reason to keep going – showing how these small, everyday connections can carry profound emotional weight. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad TV presenter Chris Packham is supporting the campaign and sharing his own story: 'There have been moments in my life when I was in crisis and wanted to end my life – and it was my poodles who got me through. They didn't just offer comfort, they offered connection, purpose, and a reason to carry on. When everything else felt distant, they were there. Dogs don't judge, they just love and listen – and sometimes, that's exactly what saves you. Dogs are life support for people in crisis.' Chris Packham is supporting the campaign Chris' experience reflects that of many dog owners. In fact, the research shows that the majority (97%) say their pooch can tell when they're feeling low, with 41% believing their pet is more attuned to their feelings than most people. With their 'sixth sense' for human emotion, it's no surprise that three quarters (75%) say their four-legged friend sticks extra close to them when they're going through difficult times. And it's often the smallest things that matter most – the quiet companionship that makes a heavy day feel lighter (62%), the gentle nudge that gives you a reason to get up in the morning (54%), and the wagging tail that greets you at the door (40%). In fact, for nearly a third (29%), walking their dog is often the only reason they leave the house when feeling low. And for many, those walks provide more than just fresh air – 83% say they feel less isolated when walking with their dog, while 67% find it easier to open up when walking with others. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad That's why Rover is encouraging dog owners to bring their canine companions along to one of the selected Mental Health Mates walks – sharing the simple, powerful benefits of dog ownership with others who may really need it. The Rover x Mental Health Mates walks will take place in locations including Durdham Downs (Bristol), Perth (Scotland), Roundhay Park (Leeds), Didcot (Oxfordshire), Greenock (Scotland), Chesterton Rd (Cambridge) and Hingham's Park (Greater London) – are free to attend and offer a safe, welcoming space for anyone looking for companionship, fresh air, and a gentle reminder that they're not alone. Bryony Gordon, founder of Mental Health Mates adds: 'We know that getting outside, moving our bodies, and connecting with others can have a profoundly positive effect on mental wellbeing. When you add dogs into the mix, that impact is even greater. Dogs provide us with love and connection. Our partnership with Rover will help more people access these benefits, bringing communities together to support each other in a safe and welcoming space.'
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Yahoo
Northumberland National Park voted region's best dog-friendly walk
Research commissioned by online pet care marketplace has revealed the top walking destinations in the UK. The South West was named the best region by one in five Brits. The region, which is home to the South West Coast Path and Dartmoor National Park, was praised for its "breathtaking views," "dog-friendly terrain," and "scenic features and atmosphere." The best dog-friendly walk in the North East was voted to be Northumberland National Park, followed by Bamburgh Beach and Tynemouth Longsands Beach. The research suggested that 84 per cent of owners view a long dog walk as a bank holiday tradition, seeing it as a chance to enjoy the outdoors, an excuse for a nice day out, and a special treat for their furry friend. In fact, 43 per cent of owners plan to take their dogs on an Easter getaway this year, with Cornwall and the Lake District emerging as the most popular destinations for dog owners in 2025. Adem Fehmi, Rover's canine behaviourist, said: "To get the most out of your dog walks and boost your dog's physical and mental wellbeing, treat each walk like a mini workout – with a warm up, main activity, and a cool down. READ MORE: Durham road closures for King and Queen's Maundy Service Auckland Palace to welcome the Easter Bunny this weekend Recruitment for new Cleveland Police chief constable "What you do for each will depend on your dog's life stage, physical capabilities, and breed, but for your average, adult dog in good health, this might look like a brisk walk to warm up, a play game such as fetch as the main activity, and then perhaps some socialisation and a slower paced walk for the cool down. "To combat boredom, consider your dog's breed, energy level, personality, and what motivates them. "Choose routes and activities that tap into those natural instincts. "Bringing treats or a favourite toy can help reinforce good behaviour and keep your dog focused, especially when practicing skills like recall or loose lead walking. "When choosing where to walk, look for dog-friendly routes with varied terrain, space to explore safely, and minimal hazards. "Always respect local guidance - keep dogs on leads where required, avoid disturbing wildlife, and be extra mindful during nesting seasons." The survey of 1,000 UK "dog parents" was conducted via Pollfish in April 2025.
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Rover Unveils Sixth Annual True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report, Exploring Major Trends Among Pet Parents Across Canada
Newly confirmed tariffs inspire pet parents to 'buy Canadian' with more than half (55%) prioritizing Canadian pet brands or locally sourced options Alberta and Ontario among most expensive provinces for pet parents while Quebec and British Columbia are more affordableTORONTO, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the world's largest online marketplace for loving pet care, reveals the sixth edition of its True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report, offering detailed insights into the financial responsibilities of caring for dogs and cats in Canada. Rover's annual report breaks down the various costs associated with pet parenthood, from upfront expenses of bringing home a new dog or cat to monthly, yearly and lifetime care costs. Based on insights and data from real Canadian pet parents, the report sheds light on pet-spending trends, while offering valuable resources to guide and educate both current and future pet parents on the financial responsibilities of caring for their pets. "Pet parenthood is a rewarding journey, but it's important to understand the financial commitment it entails," says Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, Rover's Toronto-based Veterinary Expert. "From food and regular check-ups to unexpected expenses like emergency care or aging-related needs, planning ahead can make a significant difference in ensuring pets receive the care they deserve, while easing the financial strain on their families." The report highlights regional differences in pet related expenses across Canada, detailing costs in the most and least expensive provinces. Notably, Alberta ranks as one of the most expensive provinces, alongside the expected inclusion of Ontario. In contrast, Quebec and British Columbia are identified as more affordable provinces for pet parents. There's been a notable drop in the percentage of Canadians bringing home a new pet, from 29% in 2023 to 21% in 2024. However, interest remains strong, as 35% are still considering an additional pet in the next year. According to the data, dog parents can expect costs to increase as much as 18% this year while cat parents could see up to a 41% increase compared to 2024. Yearly pet spending ranges from $965 to $4,020 for dogs and from $930 to $2,400 for cats, with food and treats being the biggest monthly expense for most dog (74%) and cat (81%) parents. The lifetime cost of pet parenthood can be substantial, with cat parents spending up to $73,585 and dog parents up to $53,935 over the course of their pet's life. Other key trends from the report include: Canadians Prefer Locally Sourced Pet GoodsWith tariffs now confirmed, 55% of pet parents say they will opt for Canadian pet brands or locally sourced options, even at a higher cost. This sentiment is slightly stronger among those with dogs (57%) compared to cats (52%). Another third (33%) of pet parents would still consider Canadian options if the price difference isn't too steep. When buying pet food, nearly half (47%) of pet parents prioritize Canadian brands or locally sourced options, even if they cost more. This trend is consistent across dog and cat parents, with 49% of dog parents and 44% of cat parents prioritizing local options. Rising Costs in Canada are a Growing ConcernMore than half of pet parents (58%) have noticed consistently increasing prices for pet-related expenses. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of pet parents acknowledge that this financial commitment has impacted their lifestyle and budgeting decisions. The challenge grows as pets age, with another 63% observing higher expenses for their care over time. Additionally, Canada's varied and often extreme weather conditions have contributed to increased spending, with 26% of pet parents purchasing extra gear like winter coats or cooling mats, and 13% paying for additional services such as indoor daycare or grooming. Financial Planning Can Make Pet Parenthood More AffordableWhile many pet parents prepare financially, a significant portion (15%) do not budget for the upfront costs when bringing home a new pet, with 25% of cat parents, in particular, reporting no budget at all. This gap in financial planning could create surprise expenses for new pet parents. Managing pet expenses doesn't have to be overwhelming with the right financial planning. More than a third (37%) of pet parents save for surprise costs like vet visits, while 36% use budgeting and expense tracking to stay ahead. Some turn to alternative solutions like pet insurance (18%), subscription services for savings on toys and treats (10%), or pet prescription services (7%). However, 34% of pet parents haven't explored cost-saving resources, and many are making personal sacrifices – 35% have cut back on groceries or entertainment, and 15% have taken on side gigs. Pet parenthood remains a beloved aspect of Canadian life, with 96% of pet parents considering their pets part of the family. However, the report's findings suggest economic pressures and rising costs may be influencing adoption rates. While many pet parents plan for the financial demands of pet care, the lack of budgeting among some highlights the need for greater education around the true costs of pet parenthood. To explore the full report on the True Cost of Pet Parenthood in 2024, see here for dogs and here for cats. MethodologyResults are based on a Rover survey of 1,000 Canadian pet parents conducted in February 2025, via Pollfish. Rover determined the most expensive and affordable provinces based on the cost of office visits, emergency visits, adoption fees, and licensing fees. Cost of pet care services, such as boarding and training were based on Rover services. Costs of supplies and preventatives were calculated using the national average and applying a cost of living multiplier calculated by Statistics Canada. Sources: BC SPCA, Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, Mondou, Ontario SPCA, PetSmart, PetValu, Rover, and Trupanion About in 2011 and based in Seattle, is the world's largest online marketplace for loving pet care. Rover connects pet parents with pet providers who offer overnight services, including boarding and in-home pet sitting, as well as daytime services, including doggy daycare, dog walking, drop-in visits and training in select markets. To learn more about Rover, please visit For Media Inquiries, Contact:Kyla Malcolm, Talk Shop Mediakyla@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
28-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
How to balance the rising cost of pet food
A recent report from online pet care marketplace says Canadian pet parents feel their dogs' and cats' costs were rising faster than inflation on human groceries. While any good owner wants to give their pet the best, experts say it shouldn't mean putting yourself into debt and that your veterinarian might be able to recommend cost-saving alternatives or supplements. (Jan. 28, 2025)
