Pet costs surge but keeping them healthy shouldn’t cost a fortune

Millions of Australians own pets and many have noticed rising costs to keep their furry friends healthy. However, don’t pay more than you should when there are cheaper options available.

Health care for humans is pricey, and it’s also creating expensive blowouts for people with pets.

Veterinary costs have climbed at twice the pace of overall inflation in the past decade, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, so some of the nation’s seven million dog and cat owners are finding fresh ways to cut their pet health expenses.

Eliza and Scott Seward say costs for their seven-year-old mixed breed rescue dog, Max, quickly add up.

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“There really is quite consistent medical upkeep, as there is with humans,” Ms Seward said.

“Flea treatments are not cheap — they’re around $100 every couple of months.”

The Sewards give Max regular vet check-ups to ensure he stays healthy, and save money by buying pet food in bulk.

CHEAP DRUGS

A recent trend in pet savings has seen owners buying medicines for their dogs and cats from pharmacists rather than vets.

This is on the Sewards’ to-do list, and National Pharmacies chief pharmacist Robyn Johns said she had personally cut the cost of heart medication for her pet from $60 to $10 a month using this strategy.

Eliza and Scott Seward with their dog Max and daughter Greta, 3. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Ms Johns said unlike the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, there were no standard payments for pet prescriptions and different vets charged differently.

“It’s just a matter of having the confidence to ask for the prescription from their vet,” she said.

“They can even advise them that they are going to shop around for the lowest price, including at a pharmacy.”

INSURANCE CHECK-UP

Pet insurance is offered by many providers but a majority of dog and cat owners still ignore it.

For some it can ease the financial stress of an unexpected illness or injury, but make sure you understand what’s included in the policy. Otherwise you may find yourself spending $1000 on dental treatments and surgery and realise your pet insurer won’t pay a cent.

FITNESS FREAK

Furry family members can benefit greatly from an active lifestyle and healthy diet, which means fewer vet bills.

Dog park visits, regular walks or trips to the beach can help prevent obesity, which Pet Insurance Australia says is occurring “at an alarming rate”.

Spokeswoman Nadia Crighton said many people did not realise their pets were overweight and the side effects that could occur.

“An overweight pet is much more likely to suffer from a range of diseases and debilitating problems including cruciate ligament issues, arthritis, diabetes and much more,” she said.

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IS YOUR PET TOO FAT?

Look down or at the side of your pet and ask these questions:

• Can I see a definite waistline?

• Can I see or feel my pet’s ribs?

• From above is my pet a rounded shape or more hourglass?

• From the side, can I see the abdomen tuck or is the belly low?

Source: Pet Insurance Australia