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Wales Online
Wales Online
Entertainment
Neil Shaw

One in five prefer their pets to their partners, survey says

One in five of us admit to being fonder of our pet than our other half. A nationwide study found more than two thirds (67 percent) claim their pet is their best friend, while 17 percent confess that their animal companion is more important to them than anyone else in their lives.

To celebrate the launch of the new DC Super-Pets promotion in McDonald’s Happy Meal, McDonald’s UK & Ireland commissioned a piece of research to explore the emotional bond we have with our furry friends. Three in ten (31 percent) claim they value their furry friend more than their best friend, while 57 percent state that they have more photos of their pet than their family on their phone.

When it comes to what makes our pets special, 58 percent said it’s because they don’t judge them, while half (51 percent) think their pooch or kitty is more loyal than the humans in their life, and 47 percent love the fact that their pet never answers back.

To celebrate the launch of the DC Super-Pets Happy Meal in restaurants, McDonald's polled 1,500 British parents with dogs or cats and found that half of pet owners even talk to their pets about their feelings while 37 percent go as far as to claim that their four legged friend has “special powers”.

These range from knowing when their owner is sad (66 percent), knowing when they need a cuddle (57 percent) and wanting to protect the whole family (48 percent). 45 percent even claim their pet can communicate with them - with just a look. In fact, a fifth (21 percent) say their animal understands them better than their other half ever could.

From 18 May until 23 June, families will be able to get their hands on the new DC Super-Pets Happy Meal, with a choice of a limited-edition plush toy or 100% sustainable book based on the much-anticipated new film release.

A spokesperson from McDonald’s UK & Ireland, which conducted the research said: “Pets play a huge part in family’s lives so it’s no wonder that two thirds (66 percent) describe their furry friend as the ultimate sidekick. We’re incredibly excited to be bringing the new DC Super-Pets promotion to our McDonald Happy Meal and know families will love the toys and books inspired by the film – it’s sure to get everyone ready for the movie release later this year.”

In Happy Meals, customers can choose from Fish Fingers, Chicken McNuggets or Veggie Dippers with an Apple & Grape Fruit Bag, or Carrot Bag side – plus, drink options including water, milk, or Fruit Shoot.

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