Does this sound familiar?
Image via Unsplash.comWe all know how much we love our pets.
But did you ever stop to realise just how much cash you're spending on your four-legged friends?
Turns out you could be spending a pretty penny on your dog or cat. A new study in the US shows that new pet parents spent an average of €517 ($553) on things like adoption fees, food and beds in preparation for their new pet.
The survey of 2,000 owners said that on top of that, they spent another €514 ($550) on their pets in the first six months. 63% said they ended up spending more than they planned to. 2 in 5 people believed they'd spent more than other pet owners.
Where was the money spent? The research found that things like toys and beds, grooming appointments, food and "puppy proofing" the house racked up the bills in those first few months.
The average owner also said they had three unplanned medical expenses or vet visits in the first year as a pet owner.
The study was conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and Foundation.
“You don’t plan for your dog to swallow a plastic chew toy or your cat to develop diabetes. These are the types of conditions that can cost thousands in emergency or specialty veterinary care,” said Rob Jackson, CEO and chief pet protector at Healthy Paws Pet Insurance.
“Enrolling your pet in insurance when they are young will help protect your wallet when these unforeseen events occur.”
