Christmas is the season of giving, but how can this tradition be made more sustainable and mindful? The latest insights from Weenect, based on customer surveys, not only shed light on gift-giving behaviors for pets but also reveal intriguing findings about how consumption habits have evolved from 2023 to 2024. Additionally, they provide suggestions on how to give more meaningfully and equitably—for both two-legged and four-legged family members alike. (find here the detailed survey report)
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The latest results from the Weenect survey among pet owners in Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium offer fascinating insights into Christmas gift-giving habits for pets. A total of 300 customers participated in the 2024 survey, compared to 1,700 participants in 2023. The comparison reveals interesting trends and developments.
76.9% of pet owners plan to bring joy to their four-legged friends this Christmas. Dogs are slightly more likely to receive gifts than cats. This tradition remains firmly established, even though the percentage has slightly decreased compared to 2023 (82.5%).
Nearly 40% of owners opt for toys, followed by treats, which have become significantly more popular at 35.4% (+8.2% compared to 2023). Practical gifts like bedding or bowls account for 12%, while technical products and accessories play a smaller role.
Three out of four owners spend less than €50 on Christmas gifts, while higher expenses between €50 and €150 have declined (12.3% in 2024 compared to 17.5% in 2023). This trend suggests a focus on more mindful choices and meaningful gifts.
Almost half of the owners (44.8%), who give their pets a Christmas present do so because they consider them a member of the family. At the same time, more and more owners (66.5%) ensure that gifts match their pets' preferences, an increase of 7% compared to the previous year.
Weenect has not only gained fascinating insights into the Christmas gift-giving habits of pet owners but also offers five tips on how we can embrace the spirit of Christmas more consciously—for people, pets, and the community alike.
1.Think sustainably – Gift pre-loved items:
It doesn’t always have to be new. Buying second-hand items reduces waste and preserves resources. A well-kept pet bed, a toy with minor flaws, or second-hand winter clothing are valuable alternatives.
2. Gift meaningfully – Choose sustainable and long-lasting items:
Choose gifts from companies offering durable, repairable products like toys made from recycled materials or long-lasting furniture, promoting responsible consumption. Such gifts encourage mindful consumption, conserve resources, and set an example for responsible behavior—a win for people, pets, and the environment.
3. Support local and social projects – Santa Paws campaign:
Christmas is the season of giving, and the "Santa Paws" campaign by Weenect exemplifies this spirit. Partnering with KONG, Weenect donates €5 from every Christmas package sold between November 30 and December 22 to Tierheim Berlin and the French animal welfare association Booglaw. The shelters also receive KONG toys for animal enrichment—a gift benefiting both pets and caregivers alike (available here for dogs and cats).
4. Gift with love instead of money:
Homemade treats or DIY toys show thoughtfulness and save money, offering a more personal touch than expensive items.
5. Create awareness:
Instead of giving many small gifts, it’s worth investing in one or two high-quality items that will truly be used. For pets, this could be technical devices for added safety and health.
Christmas offers an opportunity to rethink giving with heart and mind. From sustainable alternatives to social projects and thoughtful gifts for pets, small gestures can make a big impact. The "Pet Paws" campaign by Weenect and KONG contributes to this vision.
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