Ben Madilynn
Three quarters of dog owners have curbed their household spending to cover the soaring cost of owning a pet.
Research among 2,000 owners, found more than half have been hit by unexpected vet bills, which typically set them back £679-a-year.
The study showed 69% are concerned about the cost of dog ownership rising – with the majority of pet owners taking extra measures to cut back on costs where they can.
One in four have resorted to buying cheaper pet food, a quarter are grooming their dogs at home and 19% are skipping holidays to avoid dog sitting costs.
For some this isn’t enough and the rising costs of vet visits has left some owners having to take out a loan (6%) or crowdfund (5%) to help pay for a bill for their dog.
However, 83% of those polled, via OnePoll, sympathised with charity organisations which are having to spend more money to keep up with the costs of caring for dogs. Particularly those who provide care.
A Guide Dogs spokesperson added: “It’s natural that we love our dogs – they’re an important part of the family and bring joy to us every day.
“But we know it’s not always easy to cover the costs associated with looking after them.
“The cost rises add strain to charities like ours who provide vital life-changing services. That’s why we urgently need additional support to our appeal.”
The charity has commissioned the research as part of its ‘Puppy Appeal’ as this October the charity is asking those who can to donate and help ensure they can provide dogs to those who need them.
A spokesperson for Guide Dogs said: “Dog owners are facing price rises across many different aspects of their pet’s care, as well as increases in cost of living more generally.
“We know all too well the pressures people are facing to provide the best care for their dogs.
“We shoulder all the major costs for our guide dogs throughout puppyhood and their working lives, as we don’t want someone’s financial status to be a barrier to having a life-changing guide dog.”
