Itâs a Dogâs Life When the Credit Crunch Bites
Our four legged friends are the forgotten victims of the recession. As families throughout the country tighten their belts, our dogs are the first to feel the chill winds of the economic downturn. With larger and larger household bills having to be paid, it is hardly surprising that families are looking closely at vetsâ bills, rising insurance policies and everyday upkeep.
The recession is hitting the welfare of dogs on two fronts. Firstly many more pets are being abandoned and, secondly, the people who have accepted strays in the past can no longer afford the additional expense.
The well known Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has seen a large increase in the number of strays that have been brought in to them. On the other hand 20 per cent less people are coming forward to provide homes compared to the same period last year.
The Dogs Trust, which runs 17 centres throughout the UK, has reported that a dog is taking five to six months to rehome, compared to only three months in the past.
Problems are particularly acute for dog owners, whose pets require regular medicine and vet treatment. Saga Insurance estimates that an average vetâs bill for a dog is £300, although the cost can run into thousands for serious conditions.
Over the past five years1.6 million dog and cat owners have reluctantly had to have their pets put down as they could not afford the treatment. Many more have foregone treatment recommended by their vets due to the high cost.
Insurance policies can no longer be relied upon to cover escalating costs. The fastest growing sector of the insurance market is providing cover for pets. The value of this sector alone rose to £440 million last year, which insurers blame on the increasing number of claims.
The Blue Cross animal welfare charity and the Powys Animal Welfare Trust have both reported a large increase in the number of abandoned cats and dogs. In an attempt to tackle the problem, Battersea will be publishing a guide suggesting ways in which to save money when caring for your dog.
The Dogs Trust recommends that you buy in bulk, feed your animals with dry food rather than tinned and avoid those costly extras like sparkly collars. Rescue centres are a good place to start when looking for a dog. Your new pet will have had all of his inoculations and often you will receive a few weeks free insurance and advice.
Robert Jones was aware that buying a Bernese mountain dog called Harvey would be a long term financial commitment as they suffer from health problems. Imagine his surprise when he discovered that the dogâs insurance premium was nearly as much as insuring his house. When Harvey was four, Robert shopped around and got cover for £23 per month. However when a dog reaches six years of age it can be difficult to get insurance or the premiums rise dramatically. Harvey is now costing Robert £36, compared with his house insurance of £44.
