A pet is like a starter child

35 per cent of pets are owned by millennials. Three-quarters of Americans in their 30s own a dog and over half own a cat, compared to 50 per cent of the overall population with dogs and 35 per cent with cats. 
The American online retailer zulily has conducted a survey of 500 nationally representative US millennial pet owners regarding pet ownership and the results are pretty interesting. The overall conclusion is that for millennials, a dog or cat isn't just a pet - it's a starter child. 82 per cent of millennials are far more likely to feel that getting a pet is part of the preparation for starting a family. 65 per cent of millennial pet owners would find it more stressful to be separated for a week from their pet than from their cell phone. Employed millennial pet owners are so attached to their pets that 71 per cent would even accept a pay cut if it meant they could take their pets to work every day.

The pet obsession of the millennial generation is also reflected in its consumer behaviour. 92 per cent of millennials, according to the survey, purchase gifts such as toys, clothing and treats for their pets. More than half (51 per cent) buy their pets a gift at least once a month. Men are the more generous gift givers, with 55 per cent purchasing gifts for their pets once a month or more, compared to 47 per cent of women. On average, millennials who buy their pets gifts on a monthly basis do so four times a month.
"Pets truly make every day special for their owners, so it's no surprise to us that millennial pet parents are showing love back with their dedication, attention and purchases," said Kerry Gibson-Morris, vice-president of merchandising at zulily. "Our research shows that in 2018 they want their pet to play an even bigger part in their life - whether it's providing approval of their significant other, taking their pet to work or surprising their pet with gifts on a monthly basis. From Fido-inspired wall art to pet pouch hoodies, we're seeing the vast extent of their love reflected through our customers' purchases, as this generation of owners is actively looking to surprise their pets by going way beyond the typical leashes and collars." 60 per cent of millennial pet owners opt to purchase sweaters, dresses and more for their cat or dog. 

The survey revealed that 77 per cent of millennial pet owners prefer to buy certain pet products online. The fact that they would rather do this than go to a bricks and…