Burgess Excel has launched The Great British Small Animal Census for 2026, the largest dedicated survey into the lives, behaviours and wellbeing of the nation’s small animals. 

Now open for entries, the census aims to strengthen understanding of small animal ownership. The outcomes will develop industry education and promote best practice, reinforcing Burgess Excel’s long‑standing commitment to driving welfare standards across the sector.

Running until 20th May 2026, the census invites owners to share details about themselves and their small animals, contributing to a national dataset that will help identify key welfare trends, emerging needs and opportunities to better support small animals and their owners.  

In addition to helping shape the future of small animal care, participants will be entered into a prize draw to win an Apple Watch SE and a £50 Burgess Excel voucher. A further ten runners‑up will receive a £50 Burgess Excel voucher each.

To take part, owners simply need to complete details about themselves and their animals, then share the census with friends and family to encourage wider participation.  

Annabel Coleman, Brand Manager at Burgess Excel, commented: “Small animal welfare has always been at the heart of our work at Burgess. The Great British Small Animal Census plays an important role in helping us better understand the needs of small animals and owners across the country, and in turn, allows us to continue developing education, nutrition and care initiatives that make a genuine difference. 

“We’re encouraging small animal owners, retailers and veterinary professionals to share the census far and wide so that we can build the most accurate picture of small animal wellbeing in the UK.”

The findings will be reviewed in May, with Burgess providing full insight and analysis to help improve small animal welfare.

The survey can be completed, and T&Cs can be found, here: The Great British Small Animal Census 2026 Survey