-
San Francisco is the most dog-friendly city, survey shows
July 30, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
→ Keep up to date with the latest pet + animal news online now!
New research from insurance comparison site Compare the Market ranks the USA as the most pet-friendly country.
And going one step further, it lists San Francisco as the most dog-friendly city worldwide.
We find out why San Fran is the leader of the pack, plus we break down all the statistics to see which other cities do dog-friendly the best!
Compare the Market’s most dog-friendly city survey
San Francisco is a clear winner in Compare the Market’s pet insurance survey as the most dog-friendly city for both residents and tourists.
The city topped several categories, particularly for the number of pet-friendly restaurants and cafes, with 46.39 per 100,000 people.
The study evaluated 65 cities based on factors such as:
• Dog parks;
• Veterinary clinics;
• Pet-friendly accommodation; and
• Pet-friendly restaurants.
The USA’s commitment to pet-friendly policies and places, such as its extensive dog park networks, has no doubt contributed to its high rates of pet ownership and its top ranking in the most dog-friendly city survey.
The availability of pet services, including grooming, veterinary care, and pet-friendly accommodation has also catapulted it to the top of the list.
Many American cities performed well due to high scores in several categories, especially in the number of pet friendly hotels, cafes and restaurants.
A large number of European cities also had high numbers of pet-friendly hotels, but not as many dog-friendly restaurants and cafes.
Other highly ranked US cities include San Diego, Washington D.C., and Austin.
Pet-friendly travel tips
Compare the Market’s Executive General Manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, said it’s important to check your pet insurance documents to see if your dog is covered when travelling interstate or internationally.
“It can be great to bring your pet dog with you on an adventure, but it’s important to check the details of your policy document – called a Product Disclosure Statement – to see whether you are covered when taking your dog on holiday,” Mr Taylor said.
“A lot of policies will cover pets if they travel anywhere in Australia – but not necessarily all of them. Some policies will cover your pet if you take them overseas on holiday as well, depending on the type and level of cover that you have.
“Having pet insurance is a great source of peace of mind when taking your dog on holiday to a new destination, so you can be covered for accidents, injuries and illnesses – in accordance with the wording and coverage of your policy.”
Head to Compare the Market’s website to see the full rankings and results, along with the methodology used in the pet insurance survey!
Pet-friendly accommodation, beaches, and parks: how pets in Australia live a great life!
While not topping the survey’s rankings, Australia can boast some of the most dog-friendly cities globally and is an ideal destination for pet owners and dog lovers.
Australia has come a long way in recent years in terms of pet-friendliness, with many cities highlighting the dedication to integrating pets into daily life. The Gold Coast, Melbourne, and Sydney each provide unique benefits for dog owners, from sunny beaches and expansive parks to bustling urban areas with pet-friendly cafes and events.
Gold Coast, Queensland
Gold Coast features sunny weather, dog-friendly beaches, parks, and numerous pet services and cafes.
Melbourne, Victoria
Melbourne offers diverse dog-friendly parks, walking trails, and hosts several dog-related events yearly.
Sydney, New South Wales
Sydney’s mix of urban and beach environments makes it ideal for dogs, with many off-leash parks and dog-friendly cafes.
Australia’s dog-friendly beaches make it a popular spot for pet owners (image supplied)
Key statistics from the pet insurance survey
San Francisco, USA
- Overall Score: 8.56/10
- Dog parks: 6.06 per 100,000
- Vets: 22.76 per 100,000
- Pet-friendly hotels: 24.12 per 100,000
- Pet-friendly cafes/restaurants: 46.39 per 100,000
Austin, USA
- Overall Score: 8.37/10
- Pet-friendly hotels: 90.10 per 100,000
- Pet-friendly cafes/restaurants: 52.65 per 100,000
Washington D.C., USA
- Overall score: 8.03/10
- Pet-friendly eateries: 53.14 per 100,000
- Vets: 23.97 per 100,000
San Diego, USA
- Overall score: 8.03/10
- Pet-friendly hotels: 58.87 per 100,000
- Pet-Friendly eateries: 50.76 per 100,000
- Rainy days: 28 per year (third-lowest)
Compare the market survey results show the USA is the most dog-friendly
READ MORE ON ANIMAL FRIENDLY LIFE
Pet accessories brand Oscar & Friends to feature in Hyatt Centric and Big W stores