If you are thinking about taking on a pet, here is some useful information about what that might look like for you, financially.
Around 60% of households in the UK now own pets - this is a significant increase in pet ownership in recent years. Pre-covid, the number was around 40%.
But according to a poll taken by YouGov (carried out on behalf of Dogs Trust), “More than 1 in 10 UK dog owners have gone into debt to pay for their pet’s care, and similar numbers were also delaying non-routine veterinary treatment or missed appointments for regular procedures.”
This is in no way reflective of people being intentionally neglectful, nor does the survey suggest that people don’t love and care about their pets. It is simply not so black and white. It does however shine a light on the impact of rising costs, and perhaps a knowledge-gap around the current costs of pet care. There is almost certainly a reflection in these statistics of the sharp rise in pet ownership during the lockdown period, which might suggest that the considerations around adding a pet to the family were based on a very different way of living.
So what are the costs?
To calculate costs accurately, it’s important to consider the species and breed. Pets come in all shapes and sizes, and require differing levels of nutrition, health care and enrichment.
Consider first, everything that comes with having an animal in the home - starting with any upfront costs associated with bringing a pet into the home. What will you need to keep your pet healthy, happy, comfortable, fit and well?
This list might include pet insurance, regular veterinary fees (flea and worm treatments, vaccines, unexpected illnesses or conditions, regular check-ups, and having your pet neutered), grooming requirements (whether ‘at-home’ or professional), pet food and treats (type and quantity based on breed and weight, or any specific dietary requirements), toys, beds, accessories such as leads, collars, harnesses, and so on.
Consider also, the potential cost of boarding your pet, or having them looked after in your home while you are away. Costs like this should be added to any holiday budgets that mean leaving your pet at home while you travel.
It adds up.
On average, depending on the breed and the specific needs of your pets, owning a dog in the UK today could cost anywhere from £1000 to £4,800 per year - with the lower end of the scale relating to small to medium breeds on a minimum budget, and the higher end looking at larger breeds and higher quality provisions.
Roughly, the monthly cost of owning a dog could set you back anywhere between £85-£400 every month depending on the size and breed. This doesn’t include any unexpected veterinary bills or boarding fees.
Owning a cat can work out a little cheaper, again - dependent on the breed and specific needs of the cat you own. For example, a ‘moggie’ or domestic mix might cost around £30-50 per month, but larger breeds such as bengals or ragdolls could cost anywhere up to £200 per month.
If you’d like a more detailed picture of cost based on pet type and size, you can use the National RSPCA’s pet cost calculator to see more specific examples: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/costofliving/petcalculator
Consider your time.
Your ‘costs’ won’t solely be financial. Pets come with time obligations too. Our pets need our regular care and attention just as much as they require nutrition and health care. Pets should be considered a part of the family. Oftentimes, our pets want to be around us, interact / play with us. Sometimes our pets need a space to themselves, so they can take time away and rest: a safe-space / place to sleep.
As well as basic care provisions: shelter, comfort, nutrition, fresh water, and health care, pets need enrichment and stimulation: Treats and toys are great, but most pets also need play and regular interaction with their humans, as well as exercise, and outdoor exploration (where appropriate). Dogs, in particular, come with a significant time commitment, as they will also need various forms of training - especially in their first year (if you are considering a puppy) or for those who may have special behavioural needs.
We understand that the unexpected can happen - we don’t always know what’s round the corner when it comes to our financial circumstances. That’s why our services are here to support pet owners who are facing financial strain. Their pets deserve to be happy and healthy, and no family should have to give up their beloved pet in the face of financial hardship.
We strive to better educate and empower our local community, offering advice, signposting and seminars centred around animal legislation, responsible pet ownership, pet health, and tackling common pet behaviours and anxieties.
If you would like to know more about our small, local charity, or if you would like to get involved, please get in touch: support@rspca-sunderland.org.uk
Your support means everything to us.
To make a donation to help our small, local charity continue educating and empowering our local communities, click here.
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