- 71% of businesses gained new customers after introducing dog-friendly policy
- Half found that guests stayed longer per visit if they were accompanied by their dog
- Two thirds noticed an increased level of interaction between guests when dogs were allowed on the premises
- More than half reported an increased level of interaction between staff and customers
With only a few days left to go until voting for the Kennel Club’s Be Dog Friendly Awards closes, the largest organisation in the UK devoted to dog health, welfare and training has released results from a new survey of dog friendly businesses. The participants included pubs, B&Bs, shops and cafes across the UK.
The responses were overwhelmingly positive, with results clearly demonstrating that being dog friendly is beneficial for businesses. 71% of businesses said that they gained new customers after introducing a dog friendly policy and half found that guests stayed longer per visit if they were able to bring their dog with them. Owners being allowed to bring their pets inside means dogs are not being tied up outside nor left in a car, both of which can be extremely unsafe, nor do they need to remain at home alone.
Previous research has shown that there are many benefits for businesses in being dog friendly, including dog owners being far more likely to support local businesses than non-pet owners, a significant boost to employee morale and attendance, and four out of five companies found that business improved once they expanded their customer base to include four-legged clients. Another Kennel Club survey revealed that 96% of participants noticed a marked improvement in overall atmosphere within an establishment whilst dogs were present.
The Kennel Club’s Be Dog Friendly campaign aims to break down barriers for man’s best friend by encouraging more businesses and public spaces to welcome dogs. Two key parts of the campaign are Be Dog Friendly Week, which took place from 18th-22nd July 2016, and the annual Be Dog Friendly Awards (27th October 2016).
The awards competition, now in its tenth year, opened for voting on Friday 1st July. Voting in the competition runs until 30th September. To nominate and vote for your favourite dog friendly places or businesses, please go to www.bedogfriendlyawards.co.uk.