In our most recent survey of pet owners, 25% of participants told us that high cost of living was impacting on their ability to meet their pet’s needs. Whilst owners will often juggle their budgets to cater for their pets, inevitably some difficult decisions may need to be made. These include purchasing cheaper (which sometimes means lower quality) pet food, fewer vet visits, discontinuing insurance policies, and even relinquishing a beloved pet to an animal shelter.

There is no doubt that managing the cost of living while catering for pets’ needs can be challenging, so we are going to explore this topic more in our science initiatives – but in the meantime, here are some actions that owners can consider:

Budgeting: Create a budget that includes all pet-related expenses such as food, veterinary care, grooming, and supplies. Track your spending to identify areas where you can cut back without impacting negatively on your pet’s welfare.
Investigate affordable pet supplies: Look for discounts, buy in bulk, or consider generic brands for food and supplies. Online shopping can offer better deals.
Maintain regular vet visits: Preventative care can save you money in the long run. Make sure you keep track of your animal’s weight so that you are not overfeeding (which is a common problem). Keeping up with vaccinations and routine check-ups are great ways minimise large expenses by preventing and catching potential health issues early.
Pet insurance: Consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected medical expenses. Compare different plans to find one that fits your budget.
DIY grooming: Proper coat care is essential for your animal’s health and welfare, so if your pet allows it, consider grooming them at home. There are many online tutorials that can help you learn basic grooming skills.
Homemade treats and toys: Save money by making your own pet treats and toys. Make sure that you avoid food items that are not safe for your pet and make good use of the easy recipes and DIY ideas online.
Consider pet-sharing: If you want a pet but are worried about costs, see if you can share responsibilities with a friend or family member. There are a lot of people who will value help with their pets, especially if you have time when they would normally be at work or on trips away from home.
Explore your community for ‘low-cost’ veterinary clinics: There are some low-cost clinics or community initiatives that provide essential veterinary services at reduced rates.
Plan ahead and establish your pet health emergency fund: Set aside a small amount each month for emergencies related to your pet, so you are prepared for unexpected expenses.
Adopt a shelter pet: If you are considering getting a pet, firstly consider the cost of keeping them (the cost of acquiring a pet is a one-off, but maintenance is for life!) If you feel you can cover those costs, then consider adopting from a shelter rather than from a breeder. Adoption fees are usually lower, and many shelters include vaccinations, spaying/neutering and microchipping/registering in the price!