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This is according to Sainsbury’s Bank which is warning would-be dog owners to consider the cost of caring for the animal whilst they are at work on top of all the other more obvious expenses.
It said, alongside day care, other outlays dog owners faced included food which can add up to just over £500 a year and grooming which averages £609.
In fact, said Sainsbury’s Bank, this means owning a dog could cost owners £3,829 a year and £42,885 over its lifetime.
The research comes as nearly one third of people in Britain increased the number of days they go into the office or place of work, compared to last year.
This has created additional costs for dog owners, many of whom – 24% according to Sainsbury’s – obtained their pet during the pandemic.
Returning to work, combined with the rising cost of living, has led to the RSPCA issuing a warning about the number of pets being re-homed.
Jason King, chief customer officer at Sainsbury’s Bank has said: “We want to help make sure pet owners and would-be pet owners are aware of the cost of owning a pet, especially those experiencing challenges with the rising cost of living.
“That’s why we’ve helped create a breakdown on how much pet owners are spending each year, and why having pet insurance is important to protect against unforeseen accident and illness costs.”
Total estimated costs of owning a dog per year (Source: Sainsbury’s Bank)
| ITEM | COST FOR DOGS PER YEAR1 |
| Day care | £1,495 |
| Vet bills | £431 |
| Grooming | £609 |
| Equipment | £46 |
| Toys | £45 |
| Food | £508 |
| Care when you’re away | £190 |
| Replacing broken items | £38 |
| Clothing | £44 |
| Gifts | £40 |
| Total cost | £3,829 a year; £42,885 average over a dog’s lifetime |
Source: Sainsbury’s Bank
Tips to help owners manage pet care costs
Take out pet insurance
This will help you better manage unforeseen vet bills. Sainsbury’s Bank advises shopping around for the right cover for you at a price you can afford. It said around a third (31%) of pet owners have pet insurance with many cancelling their policies because of the rising cost of living.
Sainsbury’s Bank research revealed dog owners without pet insurance estimate that their vet bills are costing them on average £431 a year and £4,827 in a lifetime.
Do your research for the best value pet care
As with insurance, do your research to find the best pet day care in your area. Also, consider sharing dog-sitting with friends and family on the different days you’re at work.
Buy in bulk or second hand
Dog food can be expensive, but it’s important for your dog’s health you get the right product. Sainsbury’s Bank suggests buying in bulk to reduce the overall cost down the line.
When it comes to equipment, consider buying second hand. Items like crates could be borrowed from friends or family. Sainsbury’s Bank also suggested sharing training materials and utilise free online tools.
