Eighty-four percent of pet owners said in a recent survey that they feel more attuned to their pet’s health thanks to stay-at-home orders. And 67% plan to change the way they care for their pets going forward, according to the survey from Banfield Pet Hospital.

The survey was conducted in May by Wakefield Research, gathering responses from 1,000 U.S. dog and cat owners. The results suggest that spending the lockdown with pets may have lasting effects on how people approach pet ownership, Banfield said.

Other findings include:

44% of respondents feel they’re more responsible and attentive towards their dog or cat.
37% said they’re paying more attention to personal care issues like dental health in their pet.
42% are exercising their pets more now than before the pandemic.
20% are committed to taking their pets to the veterinarian for preventive care checkups more often after the pandemic subsides than before.

Additionally, 20% said they prefer working alongside their pets over their coworkers, and many are nervous to spend more time away from their pets as restrictions continue to lift and they return to work.

“The human-animal bond now, more than ever, plays an integral role in people’s lives,” said Molly McAllister, chief medical officer at Banfield.

“This survey shows that pets are always here for us—even, and especially, during the most difficult of times—and we’re encouraged that as a result of spending more time together, people are committed to finding new ways to better be there for their pets,” McAllister said.

Stay-at-home orders may have positive long-term impact on pet care, survey shows