Help is available for pet owners as cost of living increases

Most pet owners love their animals deeply and see them as another member of the family, but growing money worries have led to some making the impossible choice of giving them up.

In fact, the RSPCA has reported that the number of animals in its care is at a six-year high, and that almost half are in emergency boarding because centres are full.

This, it says, is largely because many pet owners are struggling with costs like vaccinations and general medical care.

And others are finding themselves unable to rehome unexpected litters.

Speaking to the Guardian, RSPCA superintendent Jo Hirst said: “People abandon animals because of the financial crisis we are all in.

“It costs money to neuter your animals, they breed and they have to take the litter as they can’t re-home them.

“It becomes out of control very quickly.”

Abi’s story

When Abi came to Money Wellness, she owed around £13,000.

After leaving an abusive relationship, where money was tightly controlled, she became a single parent to three children and her income became uncertain.

Abi returned to training to become a teacher in hairdressing and barbering and used her credit card to buy the equipment to get started.

But it was vet bills that tipped her into deeper financial problems.

Abi rescues animals, and one rescue cat led to treatment bills that quickly mounted.

Although the cat was insured, the insurance company failed to pay out as promised, and Abi wasn’t given a clear breakdown of costs at the start.

So to cover initial costs, Abi turned to buy now, pay later products.

“Each vet can charge what they want,” she said.

“Vets should have a set amount to charge so they can't charge what they feel like, because even working people can't afford it.”

Find out more about Abi’s story here.

Vets will have to be more transparent over pricing

Thankfully, steps are being taken to stop pet owners paying over the odds.

Vets will soon have to follow new rules designed to make costs clearer and fairer to pet owners.

The changes mean:

• vets will have to publish full price lists for common services
• written prescription fees will be capped at £21 for the first medicine and £12.50 for any additional medicines
• pet owners must be told they can have a written prescription that could save them money
• vets will have to give customers a written estimate in advance for any treatment expected to cost £500 or more
• it should be clear to customers if a vet is independent or part of a large group

A price comparison website will also be introduced so pet owners can compare prices more easily.

The new reforms will start coming into force later this year.

What help is available to pet owners?

If you’re struggling with the cost of caring for your pet, there are steps you can take to make things more manageable.

Visit pet banks

Pet banks are like food banks, but for pets. 

While traditional food banks may have pet supplies, pet banks focus exclusively on helping animals. 

They collect donations of pet food, litter, toys and other essentials and distribute them to people who need a little extra help. 

Check out interactive maps at the RSPCA and Blue Cross to find your nearest pet food bank.

Speak to your vet if you’re struggling with treatment costs

If you don’t feel you can afford veterinary treatment, tell your vet.

They might suggest other, more affordable treatment options or help you find ways to lower the cost. 

Low-cost vet clinics

Some practices and non-profit clinics offer more affordable care. 

Find out what’s available in your area and ask about discounts. 

Online pharmacies

Instead of buying medication directly from the vet, look for online pet pharmacies in the UK that offer prescriptions for less.

Do your own research

If you’re worried about any symptoms your pet is showing, check them online with sites like VetHelpDirect. 

You might find you can handle a minor issue yourself, rather than turn to the vet.

But if you’re unsure or worried about your pet’s health, always consult a professional.

Get pet insurance

Make sure your pet is fully insured, so you have a safety net in place if something goes wrong.

Typically, pet insurance starts at around £10 a month, but look for the best deal based on your pet’s age and breed.

Payment plans

Find out if your vet offers payment options that fit your budget. 

Make sure to choose interest-free plans and always read the fine print. 

Charity support for vet bills 

Another option if you’re struggling is to turn to a charity for help, such as:

• Cats Protection - offers means-tested financial help for neutering, spaying and microchipping cats
• Dogs Trust - provides subsidised treatment of up to £350 for dogs that need emergency care
• PDSA - gives free or subsidised treatment to pet owners who meet certain criteria, including owners that receive means-tested benefits

Can I get help with vet bills on universal credit? 

Yes, you can get help with vet bills if you’re claiming universal credit.

Some charities will use your benefits status to determine if you’re eligible for financial support.