While owning a pet is a privilege for many in the UK, rarely do owners know the full extent of the costs that come with owning a pet throughout their lifetime. However, as veterinary professionals, we know full well that the cost of pet ownership catches many owners by surprise.
In this article, mypetsvet.co.uk founder Dr Nick Horniman outlines his top recommendations and advice to give clients regarding the true cost of owning a pet, whether they are first-time owners or long-time pet parents.
The starting price to buying a pet
The initial cost of acquiring a pet can vary significantly depending on the type of animal you choose. For instance, obtaining a fish or smaller animal like a hamster or rabbit can be quite affordable, with the purchase price and essential supplies costing approximately £50 to £100. However, the price of owning a pet can quickly rise when you consider breeds like pedigree dogs, which range from £500 to £5,000 or more for the initial purchase.
The average up-front cost of acquiring a pet in the UK is around £200 to £500, excluding ongoing expenses like food, veterinary bills and grooming fees. This includes the purchase price, microchipping and any other essential supplies, such as food and bedding.
The average up-front cost of acquiring a pet in the UK is around £200 to £500, excluding ongoing expenses like food, veterinary bills and grooming fees
Adopting a pet from a shelter or animal welfare organisation can be a fantastic alternative to buying from a breeder. Not only will you be rescuing a life, but you will also save money on the initial purchase price. Or if the expenses of a pricey dog are out of reach, consider adopting a smaller pet like a guinea pig or a rabbit. These make wonderful companions and generally have lower upfront and ongoing costs compared to larger animals. From housing to food and healthcare, the overall expenses are typically more manageable. Choosing a smaller pet can offer the joy and companionship of pet ownership without stretching your budget too thin.
While smaller pets often require less space, making them a great option for those with limited living areas, it is worth advising potential owners of the spatial requirements of different species, as these are often misinterpreted or based on what is convenient for the owner. Also, reminding owners that some smaller mammals (and other larger animals, such as donkeys) are social creatures that require the presence of others of their species for the best health and well-being is crucial. These are both considerations that will impact the cost of pet ownership.
The day-to-day commitments
Beyond the initial cost of buying/adopting their pet, many owners face ongoing expenses that contribute to their pet’s health and well-being.
The main cost everyone is aware of is their pet’s food. Pet food consumption varies depending on the animal’s breed, age, activity level and individual needs. On average, pet owners spend between £30 and £100 per month on food. However, specialised diets for specific health conditions or larger breeds may incur higher costs.
On average, pet owners spend between £30 and £100 per month on food. However, specialised diets for specific health conditions or larger breeds may incur higher costs
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for the early detection and prevention of any health issues. These check-ups, which typically cost between £50 and £150, can help maintain your pet’s well-being and prevent costly medical emergencies.
Vaccinations are also the other most common expense that your clients need to be aware of. They protect pets from a range of contagious diseases, safeguarding their health and preventing the spread of infections to other animals and humans. Annual vaccinations typically cost between £50 and £100.
Lifestyle costs: enhancing your pet’s quality of life
While purchases for lifestyle additions are not all essential, buying these common products and services for your pet can significantly increase their quality of life.
For your clients, the most common lifestyle cost is often grooming for their pets. This is because regular grooming is essential for maintaining hygiene, preventing matting and reducing the risk of skin and coat problems. Professional grooming services typically cost between £20 and £50 per session, and many pet owners take their pets to get groomed at least twice a year, if not more.
Professional grooming services typically cost between £20 and £50 per session, and many pet owners take their pets to get groomed at least twice a year, if not more
Many of your clients will also spend a lot of money on interactive toys, especially if they have active, high-energy pets. From throwing balls to cat danglers, owners can expect to pay anywhere between £5 and £50 per month on entertainment for their pets.
An optional cost that I always stress to my clients as a necessity is pet insurance. It can provide financial protection against unexpected veterinary costs, such as emergency surgeries or chronic health conditions. While premiums vary, pet insurance can offer peace of mind and financial security.
For pet owners who often travel or work long hours, hiring pet sitters is essential for providing care and companionship while they’re away. Pet-sitting services typically cost between £10 and £30 per hour.
Additional costs: emergencies and special needs
Beyond the regular expenses of pet ownership, your clients may encounter unforeseen costs arising from emergencies or medical conditions that require specialised treatment. With the average out-of-hours veterinary appointment now hovering around £250, even routine care can become costly.
A seemingly minor incident like a sprained paw during an evening walk can translate into substantial costs. If a client’s pet is prone to self-injury or experiences chronic health issues, these unexpected expenses can quickly accumulate and place a significant financial burden on pet owners. This is why I often recommend pet insurance as a solution for my clients – it provides much-needed peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen veterinary expenses.
The full cost of pet ownership
Owning a pet is a wonderful experience but also a financial commitment. The initial cost, which ranges from £750 to £2,290 in the first year for a dog, encompasses various elements like the purchase price, essential supplies, vet visits, grooming sessions, toys and comfortable bedding. However, it’s crucial to understand that these are just the starting expenses. As a pet becomes a part of your life, the continuous costs of food, regular check-ups, unforeseen medical emergencies and other necessities can substantially increase expenses.
Veterinary professionals should also make sure clients are aware of the average lifetime cost of owning a dog, which is anywhere from £4,600 up to a staggering £30,000, if not higher
Veterinary professionals should also make sure clients are aware of the average lifetime cost of owning a dog, which is anywhere from £4,600 up to a staggering £30,000, if not higher. That is why I always advise prospective pet parents to budget and plan to ensure they can provide the best care for their pet(s) without compromising on other financial responsibilities.
