Welcoming a new pet into your home is a very exciting time for everyone, as we know only too well! We recently welcomed a loving yet very lively cocker spaniel, Finn, to our already busy household. With a total of three dogs now, cost was a huge factor when deciding if this was the right move for us.
We have always had insurance for our pets, I think of it as a safety net! If the unthinkable happened, could I afford thousands of pounds for an unexpected operation or treatment? The answer is no, I simply couldn’t.
Tesco Bank have recently conducted some research of their own, and used it to create their ‘Best Pets-timate’ The aim being to help customers consider all costs that comes with owning a pet – not only that of insurance. With the recent cost of living crisis, families are really feeling the squeeze and, if like me you’re always looking for ways to reduce costs – then look no further.
During their research, Tesco found that a staggering 44% of pet owners said they didn’t have pet insurance, leaving them and their pet at risk of high vet costs. However 59% of those with pet insurance said it was well worth the money. Most importantly 17% of puppy owners admit to not calculating the cost of getting a puppy before becoming an owner.
On that note, insurance isn’t the only cost that needs considering when choosing a pet. Owning a puppy is wonderful but often difficult to truly budget for. We need to think about everything from food and toys to routine visits to the vet; even grooming – some breeds of dogs have fur that require a lot of attention. Bobby, our sprocker, for instance visits the groomers every 8 weeks or so therefore this extra cost needs to be budgeted for. We found some really helpful advice in Tesco’s How to look after your pet on a budget They have included some great tips that could save you money.
Owning a pet is so much fun and lets face it they are part of our family and deserve the best care we can give them. Just look at Willow, Bobby and now Finn – they deserve the very best Pets-timate we can offer.
Spaniels by the sea 