Who doesn’t vaccinate pets in the UK and why? Survey 2025 reveals

Whether you have a dog, cat, or rabbit, keeping them vaccinated is a vital part of responsible pet ownership in the UK. Vaccination protects pets from serious infectious diseases and helps maintain community-wide immunity.

Despite this, a significant minority of pet owners remain hesitant or neglectful regarding pet vaccinations. A 2025 large-scale PDSA survey of 5,036 UK pet owners helps us understand who these owners are and the reasons behind their choices.

Which UK Pet Owners Are Less Likely to Vaccinate Their Pets?

While irresponsibility may come to mind, the reality is more nuanced. Factors such as age, education, income, and pet type influence vaccination rates, and understanding these factors is key to improving uptake.

• Age: Owners over 65 have the lowest vaccination rates, with only about 62% vaccinating their pets. Younger groups, especially 18-24-year-olds, show higher rates (up to 75%).
• Education: Those with higher education levels are more likely to vaccinate (70% of degree holders vs 57% with no formal qualifications).
• Income: Financial capacity plays a role; 70% of owners with household incomes over £50,000 vaccinate, compared to 62% below £25,000.
• Pedigree vs Crossbreeds: Pet owners of pedigrees vaccinate more often (73%) than owners of crossbreeds or mixed breeds (67%).

Booster Shot Adherence Varies by Demographic

Interestly, booster vaccination compliance differs from initial vaccination patterns. Middle-aged adults (25-34) are least likely to keep boosters current (~63%), whereas older owners (55-64 and 65+) show higher booster rates (~72-74%). Education and income again positively influence booster adherence.

Why Do Some Owners Choose Not to Vaccinate?

The reasons behind pet vaccine hesitancy are varied and often deeply personal. The 2025 survey reveals key factors:

• Cost: Vaccination expenses are a top concern, cited by around 20% of dog and cat owners and 13% of rabbit owners as a barrier.
• Perceived Necessity: Some owners believe vaccination is unnecessary if their pet doesn't interact with other animals or seems low risk.
• Stress and Fear: About 10% of dog owners feel the vaccination process stresses their pets too much.
• Forgetfulness: Some owners simply forget or procrastinate on vaccination appointments.
• Misinformation and Safety Concerns: Unfounded fears about vaccine side effects, including debunked links to conditions like "canine autism," deter some owners.

Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership and Vaccination in 2025

Vaccination continues to be the cornerstone of preventive pet healthcare, endorsed by UK veterinary experts and government bodies. Responsible owners understand their role in protecting not only their pets but also the wider community and public health through vaccination and biosecurity.

Effective strategies to improve vaccination uptake include subsidies or financial assistance for low-income owners, targeted education campaigns dispelling myths and fears, and reminders for boosters. Additionally, addressing illegal imports of unvaccinated pets poses a key challenge for UK animal welfare and public health.

By understanding the complex reasons behind vaccination hesitancy and tailoring support accordingly, the UK can safeguard the health and wellbeing of all pets in 2025 and beyond.

For more on responsible pet ownership and finding reputable breeders or pets for sale, always seek advice from veterinary professionals and trusted sources.