Americans are increasingly prioritizing their pets’ health and wellbeing. Canvas8 spoke to seven people across the US to get a better idea of pet owners’ changing relationships with and concerns about their pets, as well as to better understand their expectations from pet brands and services.

Pet ownership surged as a result of the pandemic, with around 3.2 million being purchased within the first 12 months. Pets at Home has seen great success during this period, achieving £1 billion worth of sales for the first time ever thanks to its omnichannel and highly personalised approach.

Americans are spending more on their four-legged friends than ever before, with expensive dog food, high-design spaces, and ‘barkitecture’ becoming more popular. As many new homeowners take their pets into account when purchasing property, how is pet ownership affecting our homes and living spaces?

Pet parents in Japan want to bring their animals with them on their travels and are willing to spend money to do so – but a lack of services and accommodation makes this a challenge. Japan Railways is trialling a new pet-friendly travel package to tap the hearts and paws of this leisure opportunity.