A new survey from February 2023 suggests that Gen Z is more likely than any other generation to be more joyful seeing their pet happy than their partner.
Surveying 2,000 pet owners evenly split by generation showed that only 15% of Gen Z would rather buy an expensive concert or vacation ticket whereas 42% would prefer saving for unexpected pet expenses.
This was somewhat backed up by 30% of Gen X, who would rather save up for their pets rather than go on a trip (20%) or purchase concert tickets (27%).
41% of Gen Z are more likely to spend $100 on their pet rather than on their partner. They also admitted to getting more joy from seeing their pet happy (36%) than their partner (21%).
The survey was conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Synchrony, and it found that half of baby boomers (54%) spend less than $150 each month on basic pet expenses. This brings a pet owner’s spending to about $3,000.
And this doesn’t just include food or vet visits as owners spend non-necessity items like clothing, toys or even technological tools.
45% of respondents would even give up eating out for a whole year if it meant free pet expenses for a year. 42% would also forego social media and 36% streaming services for this same reason.
48% would give up romance for a year, 38% work for their worst boss again and 36% their pay check if it meant that their pet would live an extra year. 49% of millennial would sleep outside in winter snow to give their pet one more year of life.
