A new poll carried out by YouGov on behalf of Dogs Trust has revealed that in 2022 vet bills were the biggest financial worry for pet owners when it came to looking after their dog. 

The second biggest financial worry was the cost of dog food (18%), followed by pet insurance (16%).

The news came as Dogs Trust announced that it has had 50,000 requests this year from owners asking the charity to take in their dog, a new record in the charity's history.

The outlook for 2023 doesn't look any more optimistic; the poll also found that 62% of people who don’t currently own a dog think the rising cost of living would prevent them from getting one in 2023, whilst 36% said it ‘definitely would’ and 25% said it ‘probably would’.

In the meantime 21% said they would give their dog fewer presents this year, whilst 13% said they won’t give their dogs a present at all this Christmas, despite giving presents in previous years.

Maybe that is a good thing. After all why were they wasting money in the first place: the dog doesn't know it's Christmas, or appreciate a present. 

Perhaps more significantly, fewer dog owners will be going away for a Christmas break this year: 9% said they’d be staying home because they can't afford a dog sitter.

Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, said: “Although it was inevitable that we would reach 50,000 calls from owners no longer able to care for their dogs, it’s still a shock and a stark signifier of the animal welfare crisis the UK now finds itself in.

“Through our December poll, dog owners have told us they’re going to struggle this Christmas, and many more are really worried about what 2023 is going to bring."

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.