A mother of two from Cambridgeshire has revealed that rising pet costs are forcing her to choose between heating her home and feeding her dogs. Issabell Livesey, who receives £1,542 monthly in Universal Credit and £180 in Child Benefit, says she spends around £150 each month on her two presa canarios, Koubla and Xena.
With rent at £1,000 and utility bills between £150 and £200, Livesey has just £522 to £572 left for all other essentials. She told the Daily Mirror: 'I prioritise my dogs' care above all else. Between insurance, specialist food, flea and worm treatments, I'd say a significant chunk of my monthly allowance goes on them.'
The cost of specialist dog food has risen by nearly 20 percent over the past year, and emergency vet visits can cost over £150. Livesey said she often delays paying utility bills, walks instead of using public transport, and keeps the heating off during winter to afford her dogs' care. She added: 'It's exhausting, but I can't compromise on my dogs' health - they are my emotional support and my lifeline.'
When asked about rehoming her pets, Livesey was adamant: 'No, absolutely not. Koubla and Xena are part of my family. Rehoming them would be devastating for all of us emotionally. I'd rather make sacrifices in my own life than see them suffer.'
Research by lender Creditspring found that 59 percent of pet owners have experienced rising costs over the past year, including a 45 percent increase in routine veterinary expenses. Fewer than three in 10 said they would have sufficient savings to cover an unexpected £500 expense. Tamsin Powell, consumer finance expert at Creditspring, commented: 'Our research shows many pet owners would have to borrow, use a payment plan, or cut back elsewhere to cover a £500 treatment cost.'
