The study of Brummies with beloved pets has revealed the close bond we have with the animals in our care.
When quizzed on the strength of their bond with their pet, 54 per cent said they preferred spending time with their fluffy friend more than a human companion.
And 22 per cent favoured quality time with their pet over their partner, according to new research conducted by dog-friendly Mercure Hotels.
And for good reason. Most pet owners see their animal as a positive influence on their well-being.
Fifty three per cent of pet owners in Birmingham find their pet works as a de-stressor after a tough day, and 56 per cent feel less alone when their pet is beside them.
And two thirds find their pet a calming presence in their home.
James Lys, General Manager for Mercure Stratford-upon-Avon, a very popular doggie hotel, said: “Our pets are a huge part of our lives and can make our day to day richer than it would be without them.
“We have noticed a marked increase in guests who bring their pets, specifically their dogs, travelling with them to share in the experience.”
Seventy nine per cent of pet owners miss their pets when they travel away from home, and a quarter feel lost without their animal companion with them on the trip.
Though 38 per cent have brought their pet along for a trip at one time or another rather than leaving them at home.
And a third found the trip away from their usual surroundings made their pet more excitable than they normally would be.
Fifty one per cent think their trip could be made better with the presence of their furry friend.
If a hotel offered a service where you could keep your pet in your room during your stay, one in two pet owners would take the opportunity to bring their animals along.
When asked to consider the things they miss most about home when they go on a trip away, 17 per cent said their pet was the thing they missed most.
Though 42 per cent crave their own bed the most after a few nights away.
James Lys added: “We take time to get to know our guests and understand their needs so we can try and deliver personal and meaningful experiences.
“Being able to bring your dog when you’re away makes all the difference in the world to some of our guests, so that’s why Mercure hotels across the country now welcome dogs.
“It’s important to our guests so it’s important to us. We’ll create special menus and treats for guests’ dogs and our hotel teams have even been known to walk the dogs when their owners couldn’t.”