Merck Animal Health Survey Reveals First-Time Dog Owners Need Support

Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside the US and Canada, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., today announced a new survey about first-time dog owners and whether or not they were prepared for pet parenthood. Results from the “Embracing Pet Care for Life” survey revealed that taking care of a new pet, especially during a pandemic, may not be as simple as one may think.

While many people found comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic by bringing home new dogs for companionship, the survey found that 73 percent of those who became dog owners for the first time this year have considered re-homing once the pandemic ends. This is likely driven by a lack of knowledge of what it takes to care for a pet, as one in four (25 percent) also claim they don’t have enough information to properly care for their dog. In fact, among new dog owners who brought home puppies this year, more than half (58 percent) say they wish taking care of their pet’s health didn’t take so much time, and 33 percent were surprised to find out how much it costs to care for their pet.

“Based on our recent survey, it appears the pandemic has intensified some of the challenges faced by many new dog owners,” said Christine Royal, Executive Director of Veterinary Professional Services, Merck Animal Health. “While people may have brought home a pet during the pandemic for all the right reasons, the reality is that pet ownership takes knowledge, preparation and patience. This reality is sometimes overshadowed by the excitement of bringing home a new pet. As a result, first-time pet owners who brought home a dog or puppy during the pandemic are experiencing a few more challenges compared to experienced pet owners. Luckily, there are several ways to streamline pet care that can improve the health and well-being of both dog owners and their furry friends.”

Survey results indicated that 70 percent of all dog owners would like to learn new ways to keep their dog healthy, whether a puppy or fully grown. First-time and experienced pet owners should work with their veterinarian to establish a balanced healthcare regimen and find effective solutions to provide their dog with the best care throughout its lifespan. As a company dedicated to improving the health and well-being of pets and those who care for them, the following data and advice that stemmed from Merck Animal Health’s “Embracing Pet Care for Life” survey will help address the concerns of new pet owners and allow them to better navigate the world of responsible dog ownership.

Expel Excess Energy
More than one-third (38 percent) of pandemic puppy owners say they were surprised by how much attention their pet requires. Additionally, one-third (33 percent) of the people who became dog owners for the first time during the pandemic (“pandemic first-time dog owners”) and are now considering re-homing their dog cited their dog’s high energy as a contributing factor.

• Pet Care Tip:For those with pets that have excessive energy, try taking them on shorter, more frequent walks throughout the day. Pet activity trackers, such as Sure Petcare’s Animo, also can help by monitoring a dog’s activity and sending alerts if there are any changes in behavior, so their owners can then make adjustments as needed. Always remember that excessive energy is common in dogs of all ages as they get accustomed to a new home.

Protect Puppies from Parasites
One-third (35 percent) of pandemic first-time dog owners say giving their dog flea and tick preventative treatments has been an unexpected hurdle, ranking this responsibility as even more difficult than housebreaking. With this in mind, it comes to no surprise that nearly one-third (29 percent) of all pandemic puppy owners, including both experienced and first-time dog owners, said they were surprised to learn how much parasites can impact their dog’s health.

• Pet Care Tip: For many pandemic puppy owners who were surprised by how much parasites can impact their dog’s health; the key is to make sure young pups are protected. Puppies eight weeks of age or older can use BRAVECTO^®(fluralaner) 1-MONTH Chews to protect them from fleas and ticks until six months of age before transitioning to the extended duration chew for adult dogs. Puppies can also be exposed to internal intestinal parasites, so it’s important for dog owners to think about complementary products such as SENTINEL^® SPECTRUM^® Chews (milbemycin oxime, lufenuron, and praziquantel), which offer broad-spectrum, internal and external parasite protection against six different kind of parasites in dogs and puppies. Just remember to always talk to a veterinarian about the proper medications and dosage for puppies.

Simplify Parasite Prevention for Adult Dogs
Only slightly more than half (57 percent) of pandemic first-time dog owners consider themselves knowledgeable about their pet’s preventative healthcare such as parasite prevention, even though most of them originally thought they were adequately or even overly prepared before bringing a new dog home. Additionally, 37 percent of people who already owned dogs have been spending more time with their four-legged companions outside since the pandemic started, which includes taking them on more walks (38 percent), going hiking (14 percent), camping (11 percent) and bringing them to parks more often (18 percent). As a result, they are potentially exposing their dog(s) to more fleas and ticks than usual, making parasite protection critical.

• Pet Care Tip:Parasite protection is something that remains critical throughout a dog’s lifetime. Keep it simple and effective as dogs age by transitioning them to BRAVECTO^® (fluralaner) Chews, a single dose with extended duration provides 12 weeks² of flea and tick protection for dogs six months and older, taking the hassle of monthly dosing off the doggie to-do list. Knowing parasite protection is critical to a dog’s long-term health and well-being, pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about preventative products, such as BRAVECTO and SENTINEL^® SPECTRUM^® Chews, that fight against the most common, harmful parasites that affect dogs inside and out.

Maintain a Preventative Care Schedule
Nearly one-fourth of pandemic first-time dog owners (22 percent) report they have encountered unexpected challenges when trying to schedule veterinary appointments. Approximately one-third (27 percent) of people who owned dogs prior to the pandemic said this was a challenge for them, as well.

• Pet Care Tip: Regular veterinarian visits are key to preventing health issues among dogs, especially when it comes to recommended core vaccinations that protect them from serious diseases. A monthly schedule can help. Talk to your veterinarian about a preventative care schedule and try not to skip any appointments. Also, keep in mind that recommendations for some vaccines and other preventative measures may vary depending on the dog’s overall lifestyle, activity levels and local climate, so talk to a veterinarian about your dog’s unique needs.

Recognize Your Veterinary Team is a Valuable Resource – Even Virtually
Overall, more than half of pandemic dog owners say they wish taking care of their dog’s health was easier and less time consuming (57 percent and 56 percent, respectively). Nearly half of pre-pandemic dog owners feel the same way (46 percent and 34 percent, respectively); however, only 19 percent of them say they have spoken to their vet more often during the pandemic.

• Pet Care Tip:Your entire veterinary team can be a great resource for pet care advice, including the veterinarian nurses at your local clinic. As a pet owner, consider writing down all pet care questions and/or challenges in advance to gather trustworthy advice from the veterinarian during the next visit. And for dog owners having trouble scheduling in-person or curbside veterinary appointments, ask the veterinary team about telemedicine and if a virtual visit is possible.

“The increased interest in pet parenting has been incredibly heartening, particularly given the emotional strain caused by the global pandemic. It’s inspiring to see thousands of families opening their doors and their hearts to welcome new pets into their home,” said Courtney Campbell, DVM, DACVS-SA, veterinary surgeon at Vetsurg. “As veterinary professionals, we aim to make these transitions a success and want pets to stay in their forever home. My goal is to always empower people to be the best pet parents they possibly can. I encourage all new pet families to foster an open and trusting dialogue with their veterinary medical team. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or get your questions answered. With these pet care tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy each other’s company for a long time.”

For more information and professional advice on how to embrace pet care for life, visit merck-animal-health-usa.com and follow Merck Animal Health on social media.

Merck Animal Health Survey Reveals First-Time Dog Owners Need Support

Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside the US and Canada, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., today announced a new survey about first-time dog owners and whether or not they were prepared for pet parenthood. Results from the “Embracing Pet Care for Life” survey revealed that taking care of a new pet, especially during a pandemic, may not be as simple as one may think.

While many people found comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic by bringing home new dogs for companionship, the survey found that 73 percent of those who became dog owners for the first time this year have considered re-homing once the pandemic ends. This is likely driven by a lack of knowledge of what it takes to care for a pet, as one in four (25 percent) also claim they don’t have enough information to properly care for their dog. In fact, among new dog owners who brought home puppies this year, more than half (58 percent) say they wish taking care of their pet’s health didn’t take so much time, and 33 percent were surprised to find out how much it costs to care for their pet.

“Based on our recent survey, it appears the pandemic has intensified some of the challenges faced by many new dog owners,” said Christine Royal, Executive Director of Veterinary Professional Services, Merck Animal Health. “While people may have brought home a pet during the pandemic for all the right reasons, the reality is that pet ownership takes knowledge, preparation and patience. This reality is sometimes overshadowed by the excitement of bringing home a new pet. As a result, first-time pet owners who brought home a dog or puppy during the pandemic are experiencing a few more challenges compared to experienced pet owners. Luckily, there are several ways to streamline pet care that can improve the health and well-being of both dog owners and their furry friends.”

Survey results indicated that 70 percent of all dog owners would like to learn new ways to keep their dog healthy, whether a puppy or fully grown. First-time and experienced pet owners should work with their veterinarian to establish a balanced healthcare regimen and find effective solutions to provide their dog with the best care throughout its lifespan. As a company dedicated to improving the health and well-being of pets and those who care for them, the following data and advice that stemmed from Merck Animal Health’s “Embracing Pet Care for Life” survey will help address the concerns of new pet owners and allow them to better navigate the world of responsible dog ownership.

Expel Excess Energy
More than one-third (38 percent) of pandemic puppy owners say they were surprised by how much attention their pet requires. Additionally, one-third (33 percent) of the people who became dog owners for the first time during the pandemic (“pandemic first-time dog owners”) and are now considering re-homing their dog cited their dog’s high energy as a contributing factor.

• Pet Care Tip:For those with pets that have excessive energy, try taking them on shorter, more frequent walks throughout the day. Pet activity trackers, such as Sure Petcare’s Animo, also can help by monitoring a dog’s activity and sending alerts if there are any changes in behavior, so their owners can then make adjustments as needed. Always remember that excessive energy is common in dogs of all ages as they get accustomed to a new home.

Protect Puppies from Parasites
One-third (35 percent) of pandemic first-time dog owners say giving their dog flea and tick preventative treatments has been an unexpected hurdle, ranking this responsibility as even more difficult than housebreaking. With this in mind, it comes to no surprise that nearly one-third (29 percent) of all pandemic puppy owners, including both experienced and first-time dog owners, said they were surprised to learn how much parasites can impact their dog’s health.

• Pet Care Tip: For many pandemic puppy owners who were surprised by how much parasites can impact their dog’s health; the key is to make sure young pups are protected. Puppies eight weeks of age or older can use BRAVECTO^®(fluralaner) 1-MONTH Chews to protect them from fleas and ticks until six months of age before transitioning to the extended duration chew for adult dogs. Puppies can also be exposed to internal intestinal parasites, so it’s important for dog owners to think about complementary products such as SENTINEL^® SPECTRUM^® Chews (milbemycin oxime, lufenuron, and praziquantel), which offer broad-spectrum, internal and external parasite protection against six different kind of parasites in dogs and puppies. Just remember to always talk to a veterinarian about the proper medications and dosage for puppies.

Simplify Parasite Prevention for Adult Dogs
Only slightly more than half (57 percent) of pandemic first-time dog owners consider themselves knowledgeable about their pet’s preventative healthcare such as parasite prevention, even though most of them originally thought they were adequately or even overly prepared before bringing a new dog home. Additionally, 37 percent of people who already owned dogs have been spending more time with their four-legged companions outside since the pandemic started, which includes taking them on more walks (38 percent), going hiking (14 percent), camping (11 percent) and bringing them to parks more often (18 percent). As a result, they are potentially exposing their dog(s) to more fleas and ticks than usual, making parasite protection critical.

• Pet Care Tip:Parasite protection is something that remains critical throughout a dog’s lifetime. Keep it simple and effective as dogs age by transitioning them to BRAVECTO^® (fluralaner) Chews, a single dose with extended duration provides 12 weeks² of flea and tick protection for dogs six months and older, taking the hassle of monthly dosing off the doggie to-do list. Knowing parasite protection is critical to a dog’s long-term health and well-being, pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about preventative products, such as BRAVECTO and SENTINEL^® SPECTRUM^® Chews, that fight against the most common, harmful parasites that affect dogs inside and out.

Maintain a Preventative Care Schedule
Nearly one-fourth of pandemic first-time dog owners (22 percent) report they have encountered unexpected challenges when trying to schedule veterinary appointments. Approximately one-third (27 percent) of people who owned dogs prior to the pandemic said this was a challenge for them, as well.

• Pet Care Tip: Regular veterinarian visits are key to preventing health issues among dogs, especially when it comes to recommended core vaccinations that protect them from serious diseases. A monthly schedule can help. Talk to your veterinarian about a preventative care schedule and try not to skip any appointments. Also, keep in mind that recommendations for some vaccines and other preventative measures may vary depending on the dog’s overall lifestyle, activity levels and local climate, so talk to a veterinarian about your dog’s unique needs.

Recognize Your Veterinary Team is a Valuable Resource – Even Virtually
Overall, more than half of pandemic dog owners say they wish taking care of their dog’s health was easier and less time consuming (57 percent and 56 percent, respectively). Nearly half of pre-pandemic dog owners feel the same way (46 percent and 34 percent, respectively); however, only 19 percent of them say they have spoken to their vet more often during the pandemic.

• Pet Care Tip:Your entire veterinary team can be a great resource for pet care advice, including the veterinarian nurses at your local clinic. As a pet owner, consider writing down all pet care questions and/or challenges in advance to gather trustworthy advice from the veterinarian during the next visit. And for dog owners having trouble scheduling in-person or curbside veterinary appointments, ask the veterinary team about telemedicine and if a virtual visit is possible.

“The increased interest in pet parenting has been incredibly heartening, particularly given the emotional strain caused by the global pandemic. It’s inspiring to see thousands of families opening their doors and their hearts to welcome new pets into their home,” said Courtney Campbell, DVM, DACVS-SA, veterinary surgeon at Vetsurg. “As veterinary professionals, we aim to make these transitions a success and want pets to stay in their forever home. My goal is to always empower people to be the best pet parents they possibly can. I encourage all new pet families to foster an open and trusting dialogue with their veterinary medical team. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or get your questions answered. With these pet care tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy each other’s company for a long time.”

For more information and professional advice on how to embrace pet care for life, visit the company’s website and follow Merck Animal Health on social media.