No pussyfooting – Keeping pets is pricey in a cost of living crisis
While it looks like the economy is on the up, it will take a while to flow through to all of the family — including Rover and Tiddles.
Our pets are sometimes last in the pecking order when it comes to paying the bills and putting food on the table.
The cost of looking after our furbabies is rising. According to Statistics NZ, the price of pet and pet-related products has increased by 11% in the year to March 2024. The average household spend is up 40% from four years ago.
So, what do you do when the cost of living bites the hand that feeds?
The SPCA’s Māngere Centre support services manager Laura Millar shared her insights with Seven Sharp.
Are people deferring animal costs as the cost of living increases?
“What we see here at the SPCA is that when times are tough for people, times are tough for animals as well. We’re seeing many people reach out for help, advice or assistance that haven’t needed the support of the SPCA before, and that’s tough to see.”
What sort of situations is the SPCA seeing around the country?
“We’re seeing a lot of people who are struggling with the basics of pet care. Some of those costs can be really expensive. Initial vaccinations, desexing, unexpected vet bills. Those things are putting people on the spot.”
What is the SPCA doing to help people keep their pets?
“Wherever possible, we try to keep animals in their homes. We don’t want animals coming into shelters if we can avoid it. We offer a lot of support like desexing and offer assistance programmes throughout the community,” said Millar.
“We’re seeing a lot of pressure on our pet pantries, which are ways we support our community with people struggling to afford those costs.
“If anyone is struggling, we recommend contacting their local SPCA.”
What should people prioritise when it comes to pet care?
“It’s always good to go back to basics. A little bit of money now can save you a lot in the future. Quality nutrition doesn’t have to be the most expensive,” Millar explained.
“If your vet has prescribed something, you’ll want to keep up with that diet. But supermarket food is fantastic, and you’re much better off spending money on it than feeding your dog or cat something that isn’t good for them and will result in a large vet bill later.
“Not putting off those vaccinations or essential surgeries will save you money in the long run.”
What does the SPCA need right now that would help?
“We would love your support in whatever way you can. We’re always looking for more volunteers if you’ve got time to give. We’d love it if people could support their local pet pantries by providing pet food donations.
“We’re also looking for foster parents.”
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