The nation's deepest, darkest secrets revealed to the dog

• 65 per cent of Brits confide in their canine friend instead of their partner
• Nine in ten dog owners have disclosed a personal secret with their pet
   

A new study* from Churchill Pet Insurance has revealed that sixty five per cent of dog owners are more likely to tell their innermost secrets to their pet instead of their partner.

In total, three quarters of dog owners share their personal secrets with their pet ahead of or instead of a family member, friend or loved one. Almost nine in ten dog owners (87 per cent) has at some point shared a personal secret with their pet.

Secrets relating to the often tricky subject of personal relationships are the top subject for sharing, with almost half (49 per cent) admitting to talking solely to their dog on the subject. The second most popular subject to talk about is health (24 per cent), followed by finance/money (14 per cent) and work worries (13 per cent).

When asked why they told their secrets to their pet dog instead of a person, 50 per cent cited the non-judgmental nature of the animal, stating that their pet "will love me whatever'. This was closely followed by "(my dog) will listen and not judge" (49 per cent).

One pet owner revealed, "My dog, Kooks, was there when I found out I was pregnant (twice). When I went into labour and the contractions began he worried just as much as us."

Peter Bishenden, head of pet insurance at Churchill, comments, "The most overwhelming reason for telling your pet your secrets is because your pet will still love you. The fact our pets give love unconditionally seems to have led to them being the perfect counsellor, along with their inability to relay any secrets!"

K9 Magazine editor Ryan O'Meara comments, "It's no great surprise that so many Briton's turn to their pets as a shoulder to cry on or an ear to confess to. They don't judge, they don't tell tales and they seem to always be ready with the right response. Further evidence as to why man's best friend earned his title."

--ENDS--

** NOTES TO EDITORS **

* Survey conducted by specialist pet research firm petbuzz/K9 Media Ltd, on behalf of Churchill Pet Insurance speaking with 1,193 recipients.

Case studies available on request (exclusivity on images/stories can be given if requested in advance).

For further details and to arrange accompanying images and interviews, please contact Kim O'Meara on 0845 163 1238 / 07903 410 421.

Churchill

Founded in 1989, Churchill is now one of the UK's leading providers of general insurance, offering car, home, travel and pet insurance cover over the phone or on-line.

Churchill general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales no 1179980. U K Insurance Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Churchill and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Churchill products or get a quote by calling 0800 200300 or visiting www.churchill.com