PET OWNERS ARE WILLING TO TRY ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
Pet owners are now trying alternative therapies. Having worked at All Natural Vet Care, who offer a holistic veterinary practice, this does not surprise me but new research from Compare the Market looks at Aussie pet owners…
Aussies take ‘pet love’ to the next level: 44% would try allied or alternative therapies
Australians’ love of pets has grown to such an extent that our pet population (at 24 million) has almost reached our human population[1]. Now, new research has found that nearly 1 in 2 pet owners are willing to try allied health services or alternative therapies to improve their pet’s health and wellbeing.
The findings come from an independent, nationally representative survey of 1003 pet owners[2], commissioned by leading financial comparison site comparethemarket.com.au. Respondents were asked whether they have used, or would use, any of the following nine services to improve their pet’s health: homeopathic remedies, laser therapy, physiotherapy, physical therapy, chiropractic services, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, osteopathy and herbal medicine.
Who uses alternative pet services?
Interestingly, 44% of pet owners have used, or would use, any of the above treatments for their pets. Among these, nearly half (45%) have or would use physiotherapy, almost a third (29%) chose homeopathic remedies in the survey and 28% opted for physical therapy (such as massage, heat treatment and exercise routines) in the survey.
Twenty-seven (27%) per cent nominated hydrotherapy (using water to treat different conditions), a further quarter (25%) selected acupuncture and herbal medicine, and 24% would or have used chiropractic services.
Fifteen (15%) per cent would even use, or have used, laser therapy to treat pain, swelling and inflammation and 12% would or have looked to osteopathy.
The survey revealed that the older the pet owner, the less likely they are to use allied health services or alternative therapy for their pet. Across the age groups, 54% of under 35s, 47% of those aged 35-44, 39% of 45-64s, and 31% of over-65s stated they have or would consider alternative therapies for their furry friend.
Women pet owners are also more likely than men to consider such treatments – at a ratio of 48% to 39% respectively.
| Types of alternative therapies people would consider for their pets | % of respondents |
| Physiotherapy | 45% |
| Homeopathic remedies | 29% |
| Physical therapy | 28% |
| Hydrotherapy | 27% |
| Acupuncture | 25% |
| Herbal medicine | 25% |
| Chiropractic | 24% |
| Laser therapy | 15% |
| Osteopathy | 12% |
Insurance for complementary pet services
Many pet owners may be surprised to find out that allied health services and alternative therapies are often covered under most comprehensive pet insurance policies. When your pet is unwell or injured, most pet owners want to know that they have tried everything they can to help them. Occasionally, this means trialling different treatments pet owners wouldn’t normally consider.
Many comprehensive pet policies[3] can offer annual benefits when you purchase extras cover with comprehensive cover. One example is ‘Routine Care’, which gives you certain benefit amounts for a range of treatments, including alternative therapies.
When comparing pet policies, it is essential to find cover that not only suits your pet’s needs but also your budget. Comparison services such as comparethemarket.com.au can help individuals looking to find an appropriate level of cover that provides pet owners with the maximum benefits and the shortest waiting periods so that their pet can recover quickly.
Consumers have the option to purchase additional routine care treatments too, which may include a wider range of alternative therapies such as physiotherapy and chiropractic services. Make sure you always check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to see what is and isn’t covered within your policy[4]
About Comparethemarket
Comparethemarket.com.au is an online comparison service that takes the hard work out of shopping around. We help Australians to quickly and easily compare and buy products from a wide range of providers. Our easy-to-use comparison tool enables consumers to find a product that suits their particular circumstances. We’re also in the business of comparing personal finance products, utilities and can help find the lowest fuel prices in your area. Whether it’s car, health or home & contents insurance, we provide a completely free service, that empowers Australians to make informed buying decisions. We’ve got your back, simples.
References
[1] Animal Medicines Australia, ‘Pet Ownership in Australia’ (2016):
[2] Survey conducted by PureProfile.
[3] Based on a comparison of six pet insurers for a 1 year old labradoodle for Comprehensive pet insurance (RSCPA, Guide Dogs Australia, Prime Pet Insurance, Real Insurance, Australian Senior Insurance and Guardian Insurance) on comparethemarket.com.au
[4]Prime Pet Insurance’s Sovereign Accident & Illness Cover and Real Insurance’s Premium Accident & Illness policies each covers up to $80 worth of routine care treatments in a year.
