Four In Ten Have Pulled A ‘Sickie’ For Their Pet

More than four in ten pet owners have ‘pulled a sickie’ from work – because of their pet, it has been revealed.

A study of 2,000 pet owners shows they take an average of five days out of the office in a year due to a problem with their pet, but 26 per cent didn’t feel they could be honest with their employer the real reason for needing time off.

And sadly almost half of pet owners have felt forced to take time off after the loss of a beloved pet, as they couldn’t face a normal day’s work because they were so heartbroken.

In fact, they have taken a further three days off in a year due to the death or loss of a well-loved family pet.

It was also found that 65 per cent of pet owners have taken time away from their desks to be able to attend a vet appointment with their four legged friend.

The study was commissioned by Blue Cross pet charity, which offers a free Pet Bereavement Support Service to help people who have lost a pet, be it through death, change in circumstances or theft.

Tracie McGrory, Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service Manager, said: “Pets are part of the family and losing one can be devastating.

“Taking compassionate leave for family is obviously very understandable, but when it comes to our pets, sadly many people don’t realise the deep emotion losing one can bring about.

“Our pet bereavement volunteers talk to lots of grieving pet owners who feel they can’t face going into work because they think their employer won’t empathise.”

“If you’ve had a pet with you for a long time, then losing them through anything from death to theft or them running away can take its toll on concentration – meaning you’re not at your best in the office.

“So taking time away from the office can really help, even if it’s just an hour or two at the start of the day”.

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