Written question asked by Ruth Jones (Labour) on Monday, 23 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 April 2026 (named day). It was answered by Diana Johnson (Labour) on Monday, 13 April 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Employment: Pets

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of pet ownership on a) productivity, b) labour market participation and c) flexibility.

Answer

The Department for Work and Pensions has made no assessment of pet‑related factors on labour market participation, productivity or flexibility.

The Government does not collect or hold information on the impact that pet ownership has on the labour market.

With regard to comparative assessments between companion animal care functions and informal caregiving, the Department has made no such assessment.

However, the Department has published analysis and research on informal care and employment. This can be found in the Informal Carers and Employment: Summary Report of a Systematic Review, available at: Informal carers and employment: summary report of a systematic review - GOV.UK

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 122869
Session: 2024-26
Related items: Surveys: Pets
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Grouped for answer: Yes
Subjects: Employment Pets Productivity
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk