A veterinary organisation has raised concerns about the level of preparation undertaken by pet owners in Wales following the release of its annual wellbeing report.
The PDSA study found that 23 percent of those surveyed had not conducted any research before acquiring their animal, while just 15 percent had investigated the financial commitments involved in ownership.
The survey results indicated that 38 percent of dog owners reported walking their pets for 30 minutes or fewer each day.
Eighteen percent of all pet owners acknowledged that their animal required weight loss.
The charity noted that while reduced exercise durations might suit certain dogs depending on their age, breed and medical condition, many dogs would require more physical activity and mental stimulation.
Across the broader UK survey, dogs receiving less than 30 minutes of walking time daily were more frequently reported as exhibiting excessive barking toward people outside windows compared with dogs walked for one to two hours.
The report emphasised that this correlation did not demonstrate causation between shortened walks and the behavioural issue.
PDSA expressed concern that owners might underestimate the prevalence of overweight pets among their animals.
The organisation encouraged those concerned about their pet’s weight to obtain professional guidance on diet and exercise management.
The Welsh data additionally revealed that 64 percent of respondents had discovered their pet through online platforms.
The charity cautioned prospective owners to verify the legitimacy of sellers and rehoming organisations, warning that irresponsible breeding practices could prove challenging to detect through images, footage and written descriptions alone.
Commenting on the findings, PDSA veterinary surgeon Anna Ewers-Clark stated that the organisation understood the affection owners held for their animals and their desire to provide optimal care.
She indicated that by highlighting areas requiring attention identified in the report, the charity aimed to equip owners with information supporting both their own circumstances and their pets’ welfare.
The research was conducted by YouGov between late June and mid-July 2026, polling 3,440 adult dog, cat and rabbit owners across the United Kingdom.
Results were adjusted to reflect the demographic composition of UK pet owners by age, gender and geographical region.
Specific figures for the Welsh portion of the sample were not disclosed.
In conjunction with the report’s publication, PDSA introduced a ten-question online assessment enabling owners to evaluate their pet’s wellbeing and practical care standards.
Comprehensive findings and supporting materials can be accessed through the charity’s official website.