The cost of living crisis is hitting people in many different ways. According to research from YouGov, 58% of UK adults have struggled with the costs associated with owning a dog to some degree in the past year.
The cost of living crisis is leading to a ‘dog welfare crisis’ this year as the capacity for pet charities and shelters to take in dogs begins reaching a breaking point, with 6,000 calls a month from owners who can’t afford to keep their pets. Dog experts at Kennel Store have provided several money-saving solutions for dog owners to help them avoid giving up their beloved pet, including how much money you can approximately save annually by following these tips.
Make your own dog food (save up to £1,170 per year)
Dog food costs can range anywhere between £325 to £1,170 annually, depending on the brand and how much your dog tends to eat. However, making your own dog food can be a cost-effective option to consider for your pet.
To guarantee a healthy and nutritious diet, look for recipes online and even consult your veterinarian to consider any necessary adjustments. Use a healthy balance of proteins, carbohydrates and vegetables in your dog’s meals. You can also batch cook and freeze portions for convenience and save more money.
Shop second hand (save up to £940 per year)
Dog supplies and accessories - ranging from collars to dog crates - can cost up to £940 together on average, depending on the size of your pet, brand and frequency of use. Shopping second-hand can mitigate these expenses.
Browse online marketplaces or search charity shops for used supplies that are still in good condition by examining for wear, damage, and safety issues. Remember to sanitise items by washing them before use and focus on searching for durable toys that withstand your dog's activity level.
Learn basic dog grooming skills (save up to £960/£80 per month)
It is advised that you take your dog to visit a groomer, with appointments costing up to £80, at least once a month, costing £960 a year. This is dependent on if you have a breed with a coat that requires regular maintenance. By learning basic grooming skills by searching for video tutorials, websites, and blogs online, you can learn trimming, bathing, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing techniques to maintain or improve your dog’s overall health and appearance. Professional grooming may still be required for some breeds or trims.
Subscribe here for the latest news where you live
Consider pet insurance (save up to £305 per year)
Considering pet insurance is a wise financial decision that may save you money in the long term; an emergency vet visit costs between £150 to £305. But by having your dog insured you can cover not only emergency care but unexpected medical treatments, surgeries and prescriptions. Overall, pet insurance is often more cost-effective, giving you peace of mind, relieving financial stress, and letting you focus on your dog's health. Remember to carefully review policy terms when selecting a reputable provider.
Prioritise preventative dental care (save up to £375 per year)
It is essential to prioritise preventative dental care for your dog in order to avoid expensive dental operations, with visits costing £190 to £375 depending on the procedure. To prevent this, use simple money-saving methods like brushing your dog's teeth on a regular basis with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to eliminate plaque and prevent tartar accumulation. Dental chews also encourage oral health. If you consider it necessary, schedule a dental check-up with your veterinarian to review and address your dog's oral health.
Use a pet food bank (save up to £1,170 per year)
As mentioned, households spend up to £1,170 annually on food for their dogs. As the cost of living crisis is likely to continue and lead to higher food prices, finding a pet food bank may be quite beneficial for dog owners who are suffering financial difficulties. Look for local pet food banks, non-profit organisations, and animal shelters that offer pet food assistance programs. These groups distribute free or low-cost food to pet owners in need, which can ensure that your dog obtains sufficient nourishment even on a tight budget.
A spokesperson for Kennel Store said: “It is clear that pet-related expenses have been affected by the cost of living crisis and inflation; 81% of pet owners have noticed a rise in these costs, which adds to their financial burden, and is leading to an increasing number of households giving up their dogs. Meanwhile 73% of pet owners are concerned about providing the required care for their cherished pets while managing their expenses. By using these budget-friendly tips for dog ownership, like exploring pet food banks, shopping second-hand, and learning basic grooming skills, pet owners can find ways to raise happy, healthy dogs while managing the impact of rising costs.”
