Would you spend more ON THE DOG THAN ON YOUR HUSBAND?

Brits are happy to fork out more on their pets’ gifts than on their other half’s, according to a study. We investigate….

- KATE GRAHAM

When it comes to Christmas shopping, sometimes it can be hard to know where to start, who to get what, and how much to spend. We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to find the perfect present, especially when it’s for someone that we love. But what if the gift receiver has four legs and a waggy tail? According to a new study, one in five Brits (18%) will be splashing the cash on their pets at Christmas, forking out more on their beloved cats and dogs and less on their human loved ones. 77% of those surveyed admitted it was so that their pets don’t feel left out during the festivities. It goes without saying that a pet is part of the family, but is spoiling them more than our human loved ones really acceptable or is it, excuse the pun, a bit barking? We speak to a woman who happily splashes out more on her dogs than she does on her husband.

‘IT FELT MAGICAL BEING SANTA TO THE PUPS’

Jo Wade, 48, lives in Rushden, Northamptonshire, with husband Jerry, 49, daughter Lois, 20 and son Harry, 18.

Browsing in an expensive local shop, I couldn’t decide between the luxury Advent calendar, personalised blanket or super-soft scarf. Then I shrugged, smiled and bought them all, picturing the happy faces on Christmas morning. But I wasn’t splashing out on my husband or kids – these gifts were for my dogs.