If you’ve ever seen a cute dog or a cat reviewing products on social media while you are scrolling, you’re not alone. Today’s Tech News Tuesday is all about pet influencers — why they might be more trusted than human influencers, and how that can help your business.
A recent study in The Journal of Advertising Research found that “petfluencers,” pets regularly featured on social media, are actually more persuasive and trusted than traditional human influencers.
Petfluencers are more persuasive and trustworthy than traditional human influencers.
Some petfluencers are incredibly popular. Like Wrinkle the Duck, who “ran” the New York City Marathon and has hundreds of thousands of followers. Or Nala the Cat, who has over 4 million Instagram followers and makes millions from endorsements.
Pets Versus Human Influencers
In the study, researchers tested fake Instagram ads with pets and humans promoting everyday items like peanut butter and wine. The pet ads reached more people and delivered better returns on ad spend.
People trust pet endorsements more because pets don’t seem to have an agenda. They’re genuine and authentic, not chasing likes or fame — at least, not intentionally!
Human influencer fatigue is real.
Human influencer fatigue is real. Sponsored posts by people often feel less genuine over time, but when you see a dog enjoying peanut butter, it just feels honest and natural.
What Does This Mean for You?
There’s even science behind why pet ads resonate emotionally, especially with products tied to immediate pleasures, like snacks or relaxation. The emotional connection pets bring to ads hits the right spot for viewers. So, what can you do with this? Consider using pets in your own marketing. You don’t have to go viral with a famous duck, and remember, authenticity wins every time. Pets can help show a playful, personal side of your brand that feels real and relatable.
Consider using pets in your own marketing.
Your Action Items
How can you use this in your local business?
- Try featuring pets in your content.
- See if there is a local pet influencer relevant to your audience to partner with.
- Keep your messaging authentic and fun.
When your content feels real and relatable, it connects better with your audience, and a furry friend can certainly help with that!
Do you prefer to listen in? Here’s our podcast:
Links in this episode: People tend to trust ‘pet-fluencers’ over human influencers
