Vets costs pets crisis
Hard-up owners squeezed by the cost of living crisis are avoiding taking their sick or injured animals to the vet – and some are even trying to treat their pets themselves with cheaper human drugs.
The RSPCA is getting more calls from people worried about vet bills.
But chief vet Caroline Allen said: “It may be tempting to bury your head if your pet is unwell and you’re worried about costs, but this can lead to increased problems.
“The first step towards helping your pet is contacting a vet. It may be awkward talking about money but it is good to speak honestly as there may be alternative options.”
Reports of people trying to treat their own pets are even more concerning. Google searches for “Can I give my dog paracetamol?” jumped from 5,600 per month in 2020 to 14,600 in 2022.
But Caroline warned: “What can work for a human is often unsuitable for pets and may even be toxic. Your pet could then end up needing even more costly treatment.”