Met Office Heatwave Alert: Rise in People Turning to Pets for Emotional Support
As the Met Office issues heatwave alerts across parts of the UK, new data reveals a surge in people turning to pets for comfort, companionship and emotional support while spending more time indoors.
New search engine analysis by Foxholes Care Home shows growing interest in pet therapy, as extreme temperatures disrupt routines and increase feelings of stress and isolation.
Animal-assisted activities are becoming increasingly important in supporting wellbeing, particularly during periods of prolonged heat. Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust describes animal visits as “widely accepted as a powerful aid to stimulation and communication”, with studies showing companion animals can improve wellbeing and help reduce anxiety.
The data highlights where interest is rising fastest. Cambridge recorded the largest increase in searches for pet therapy, up 44.3% year-on-year. Southampton followed with a 13.6% increase, while Burnley saw an 11.9% rise.
| Average monthly Searches for “pet therapy” and 683 related keywords | |||
| City | June 2024 to May 2025 | June 2025 to May 2026 | Percentage Change (%) |
| Cambridge | 700 | 1,010 | 44.30% |
| Southampton | 1,760 | 2,000 | 13.60% |
| Burnley | 1,430 | 1,600 | 11.90% |
| Royal Tunbridge Wells | 1,340 | 1,470 | 9.70% |
| Lincoln | 1,870 | 2,050 | 9.60% |
By contrast, Milton Keynes (-22.8%), Blackpool (-23.2%) and Canterbury (-24.3%) saw declining interest.
Neil Gandecha Care Home Manager at Foxholes Care Home, explains, “With heatwave alerts in place, we often see residents spending more time indoors and becoming less socially active. Pet therapy can play a vital role in maintaining emotional well-being during these periods.
“Spending time with animals can ease anxiety, lift mood and encourage interaction in a way that feels natural and calming. This becomes even more important when usual routines are disrupted by extreme heat.
“For many people, particularly older adults, animals offer comfort and companionship when they need it most. Even a short visit from a calm, friendly therapy animal can help people feel more relaxed and connected.”
Practical tips for introducing pet therapy during hot weather:
- Schedule sessions during cooler parts of the day, such as mornings
- Keep visits short and monitor for signs of fatigue or heat stress
- Ensure access to water for both residents and animals
- Use shaded, well-ventilated or indoor cooled spaces
- Continue to prioritise safety, consent and accessibility
Neil concludes, “Pet therapy doesn’t need to be complex. Small, well-planned sessions can make a meaningful difference, especially when people may feel more isolated during a heatwave.”
