Over 40% Of Dog Owners Say The Best Part Of Traveling Is Coming Home To Their Pup

For many dog owners, the highlight of a vacation isnt the destination — it’s returning home to their beloved pet.

According to a new survey of 2,000 dog owners, conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by K9 Resorts, 42% say the part of a trip they enjoy most is reuniting with their dog.

The survey sheds light on the strong emotional bond Americans have with their pets and how that affects travel. Forty percent of respondents said they “constantly” worry about their dogs well-being while away, and 22% admitted missing their dog so much it detracted from their enjoyment of the trip.

In fact, on average, it only takes 53 minutes after leaving home for pet parents to start missing their pup, with nearly a quarter (24%) reporting that the feeling kicks in as soon as they walk out the door. Even during the trip, distraction is short-lived: owners say their vacation only occupies them for about 90 minutes at a time before feelings of “pet parent guilt” set in again. On average, dog owners report missing their pets about 13 times per day while away.

This anxiety makes finding proper care for their pets a major consideration. Seventy-six percent of dog owners said their summer travel plans depend on securing the right care. Many expressed concerns about others not understanding their dogs needs (32%), or whether their pet will get enough exercise, play, or affection (34%).

That concern even leads some owners to stay in close touch with their dogs while away—19% said theyve asked a pet sitter to put their dog on the phone, while 17% have made video calls.

“Dogs are true family members, and we understand the anxiety pet owners feel when they are traveling and cant bring their pups with them,” said Steven Parker, co-CEO and co-founder of K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel and Daycare. “Our expert staff of dog lovers goes above and beyond to make sure your best friend is treated like family. Our clients know they can rest assured their dogs are enjoying a fabulous staycation while theyre away.”

More than half (52%) of pet parents said they wish they could explain to their dog why theyre leaving and reassure them that theyll be back. The survey also found that most respondents feel closely attuned to their dogs emotions — 84% say they can read their dogs expressions, and 86% claim to recognize changes in barks or whines. One in five said they always know what their dog is about to do.

That level of understanding doesnt prevent worry. On average, respondents wonder whether theyre meeting their dogs needs three times a week. Forty percent said they worry more about their dogs needs than their own, compared to 19% who said the opposite.

Dog owners said their top concerns include exercise (44%), overall health (43%), and affection (37%). Fewer prioritize socialization (29%) and mental stimulation (28%).

“Pet parents naturally think of nutritious meals and exercise as essential components of their dogs well-being, but being properly socialized and receiving mental stimulation is just as important,” Parker said. “If they arent already, I recommend to dog parents that they identify ways to incorporate these elements into their dogs daily routines — whether thats through boarding and daycare, trips to the dog park, or play dates.”