Dog owners feel the bite as costs of keeping their pets hit the woof
The cost of owning a dog has almost doubled during the cost of living crisis, leading to rising numbers of people making difficult choices about caring for their pets.
Owners have endured a barrage of price increases in the past three years due to the pandemic and rising inflation, research shows.
The average monthly cost of keeping a dog rose from £55 in 2019 to £80 in 2021, after the pandemic sparked global supply chain issues that increased the cost of pet food ingredients and packaging.
Prices jumped again in the past year, pushing canine costs up to around £108 a month – to a 95% increase in just three years.
The recent rises have been caused mainly by the worldwide consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
A Kennel Club survey reveals that 40% of owners are worried about how they will continue to care for their dog in the current economic climate.
The report also says that around 14 % of Britain’s dog owners have gone without food items so their animals could eat – while 11% have shared their meals with them.
The Kennel Club said: “Dog ownership comes with many benefits and positives but it is also a responsibility that can be challenging, especially if your situation changes unexpectedly.
“Some owners may be worried about affording aspects of their dog’s care, such as vet bills, food and training. If you find yourself in this position, charities like the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals can help some owners with vet costs, some insurance policies can be flexible and often family and friends can help.
“Food banks may also be able to help with pet food. We also highly recommend insuring your dog if you can, as insurance can help with unexpected vet bills.”
The cumulative cost increases mean dogs are being abandoned in larger numbers, according to animal welfare experts.
The Scottish SPCA said calls to its animal helpline from people no longer in a position to care for their pets due to financial pressures have trebled in the past year.
“We have seen an increase in people concerned about paying for food, insurance or vet bills,” the SPCA said. “On top of this we have seen a 77% increase in people calling to rehome an animal.”
In response, the organisation has pioneered Pet Aid. The service is now available through 38 food banks nationwide and provides vital pet supplies to people when they need them most.
“Our inspectors work directly with pet owners, providing support to hundreds of people in their own home,” said the Scottish SPCA. “Through our animal helpline and inspectors, we have gained a unique insight into the impact of the cost of living crisis on people and their pets.”
The majority of helpline callers cite rising vet bills and insurance premiums as their main worries.
“Many are having to decide between feeding themselves or their pets as high energy prices are also impacting their ability to heat their homes,” the SPCA said.
The charity has also recorded a spike in the number of animals coming into its care because they have been abandoned.
“The last thing we want is people having to give up their animals because they are struggling financially,” it said.
“We would urge people to consider their circumstances before committing to taking on a pet. Having to rehome an animal again can cause significant stress to the dog and the owners.”
Anyone struggling to care for their pet can call the SPCA helpline in strict confidence on 03000 999.