What Is Pet Culture Like in France? Everything You Need to Know
Updated on
Although experiences do differ according to location, pet type, and other factors, France is generally considered to have a positive pet culture. Well-behaved and reasonably sized dogs are allowed in most places, veterinary care is readily available and low cost, and there’s a decent range of products and services available.
However, when compared to countries like the U.S., there are limited natural and raw food selections, healthy treats, and alternative treatments available. And there are a lot of animals on the streets, which can be alarming for owners and non-owners alike.
Pet Ownership in France
France has one of the highest rates of pet ownership of any country in the world.1 France ranks 9th for the size of its dog population and 5th for its population of cats. It also ranks 5th for its population of birds and 2nd for fish. This is despite being the 22nd largest country in the world,2 by population.
Just 32% of households claim that they do not own a pet of any type,3 which means that two-thirds of households have at least one animal, whether that be a cat, dog, or another type of pet. Specifically, 31% of households said that they own one or more cats compared to 25% of households that said they own one or more dogs. About 12% said that they own a pet that isn’t a dog or cat.
Vet Availability
Pet owners need to be able to easily and readily access a vet, and France has a large network of veterinary practices across the country. While cities and large towns naturally have a larger concentration of veterinary practices, they can be found in more rural areas, too.
There are estimated to be more than 10,000 vets across France,4 of which include emergency vets available 24 hours a day and those that offer reduced rates for pet owners on low incomes. The vets have been reported as being caring, giving of their time, and having lower costs than in some other countries like the U.S., too.
Food Range and Availability
Pet food is readily available and can be bought from supermarkets as well as smaller shops and convenience stores. However, owners have reported that it is more difficult to find raw food and natural food options, with the vast majority of food brands being processed foods.
Similarly, healthy treats are more difficult to come by. Demand for natural and higher-quality pet products is increasing,5 though, so it is likely that the availability of these types of products will increase in the future.
There are specialist pet food shops found in major cities and some in smaller towns, too. These offer your best chance of finding natural foods and alternative products.
Are Pets Allowed?
Pets are welcomed in a lot of locations. Well-behaved dogs are generally allowed in most public spaces, and it is common to see dogs in cafes, restaurants, bars, and other locations in major cities as well as in smaller towns and areas.
There are obviously some exceptions. Unruly dogs, and very large breeds, are not as welcome in establishments. There are also some specialist dog restaurants and cafes that welcome dogs with open arms and provide food and drink to cater to pets as well as their owners.
More Pet Culture
Although pet culture is generally positive in France, there are some aspects that are less desirable. There is considered to be less access to alternative and holistic therapies, as well as natural foods, and there is a fairly major problem with dog mess left on the streets. This mess could be a result of the many stray dogs that are found especially in big cities.
Conclusion
The French love their pets and are especially keen on cats and dogs. The European country has an especially high rate of fish ownership, too. Dogs are generally well received in public locations, although large dogs and those that are loud or boisterous may not be as well received.
Vets are found throughout the country, offer affordable services, and have a caring attitude, but there are fewer holistic and alternative therapies than in countries like the U.S. Dog messes and stray dogs are something of a problem, especially in cities like Paris.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
