Give the Dog a Phone: Pet Owners Admit to Missing Their Pets More Than Their Family on Vacation
It’s official—when people go on holiday, they’re not just packing their suitcases… they’re also preparing for daily video chats with their dogs.
A new study from O2 reveals that nearly half (48%) of pet owners in the UK video call their pets while abroad—often more than once a day. And for many, it’s a non-negotiable part of their travel routine. One in three even confessed they prioritize calling their furry friend over calling their parents.
But this level of puppy love comes with a price—literally. Almost one-third (32%) of travelers have been blindsided by steep roaming fees, racking up an average of £90 in unexpected charges after their trips. All for a quick “I miss you” to their pets.
The emotional toll is just as real. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of pet parents admit they hate leaving their animals behind, and 4 in 10 have even turned down a vacation to avoid being apart. Among Gen Z pet owners, the attachment runs deepest—70% admit to video calling their pets, and over 60% say it helps them feel less homesick.
It’s not just about seeing their pets, either. Many believe the feeling is mutual: half of pet owners think their dogs and cats recognize their voice through the phone. Others rely on pet cams, with 1 in 5 regularly checking in throughout the day.
With vacation season heating up and pet-parent FOMO in full swing, O2 has teamed up with dog behaviorist Rob Alleyne from the Canine Instructor Academy to offer advice on how to call your dog the right way.
Here are his top tips:
Keep it calm. High-pitched, excited voices may actually stress your pet out when the call ends. A soothing tone helps keep them relaxed.
Make it meaningful. Use familiar phrases your pet already knows instead of just rambling—they may not understand the words, but they’ll get the vibe.
Don’t overdo it. Too many calls may cause more anxiety than comfort. Watch your pet’s behavior after each call to gauge their reaction.
Use music. Train your dog to associate a certain song with calm moments. Playing that song during your calls can create a sense of peace.
Know your dog. Some dogs get confused or upset by hearing your voice without seeing or smelling you. If that’s the case, skip the FaceTime and stick to pet cams.
With so many Brits making these emotional connections from abroad, O2 is highlighting the importance of checking your roaming plan. As the only major UK mobile network offering inclusive EU roaming up to 25GB at no extra cost, O2 ensures you can call home (including the four-legged family) without coming home to surprise bills.
An O2 spokesperson explains: “We know it’s not just people you miss when you’re away—it’s your pets, too. That’s why we’re proud to offer roaming across 49 European destinations, so customers can stay connected with loved ones and pets without the financial shock.”
So the next time you’re planning a trip, remember: check your roaming policy, prep your playlist, and make sure your dog knows you didn’t forget them. Because for many Brits, staying in touch with their pets is just as important as sunscreen and sandals.
