'Your Wallet': Lincoln pet owners budget for increases in vet, food costs

May 30, 2023

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LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Katie Dressman has three dogs: a 4-year-old lab, a 4-year-old husky mutt and a pit bull mix named Rocko.

And buying food and supplies for three dogs is not cheap. But Dressman said buying in bulk at Costco or Sam's Club helps keep costs down.

Each month, she gets a 60-pound bag of dog food for about $100. Dressman also stocks up on treats and toys when they’re on sale.

"They are a part of our family," she said. "We just make sure that we have a budget set and we have averaged out over how much we have spent on them."

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Unplanned vet visits can also impact a pet owner's wallet.

For routine medical checkups and preventive medicine, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates that people spend at least $410 annually for a dog and $300 for a cat.

"There is always maybe something that will happen, whether an injury or such, that we kind of account for as well," Dressman said.

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During the adoption process at the Capital Humane Society, pet owners are told that they will have to start budgeting, Executive Director Matt Madcharo said.

In 2022, the American Pet Products Association reported that over $58 billion was spent on pet food and treats alone.

"Do your research before you acquire a pet or adopt a pet," Madcharo said. "Look into specific breeds because certain breeds are going to have certain things they are going to need, and some dogs are going to need more routine grooming appointments."

For those facing unexpected financial challenges, several resources are available at the humane society.

Pawsitive Impact provides preventive vet care and food for pet owners who may be in a difficult financial situation.

CHS also has vouchers to help out with canine spay/neuter services, behavioral and training assistance, grooming and landlord pet deposits.

"There is definitely a need out there, and we are trying to fill that gap to help people keep their pets so they don't have to surrender them to the shelter," Madcharo said.

Editor's note: This report is part of a weekly series Channel 8 is airing called "Your Wallet." We’ll be looking into any topics that deal with your money. The reports air every Monday during the Channel 8 News at 6 p.m.

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