LIFE057 The real cost of pet ownership (510 words)

This article highlights Australians’ love for pets and the importance of understanding the financial commitment involved in responsible pet ownership. It encourages prospective owners to consider both the upfront and ongoing costs, while celebrating the many emotional benefits pets bring to our lives.

Australians love pets! It’s a fact, supported by the stats. According to the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) of WA Pet Census 2024, 69 percent of Australian households include at least one pet.

That equates to 29 million pets across the country, our favourites being: dogs (6.4 million) and cats (5.3 million). Birds, fish and other small animals like guinea pigs make up the difference.

Each year, around 200,000 animals find themselves homeless and being cared for in shelters. Heartbreakingly, many have been reluctantly surrendered, their families no longer able to afford the cost of caring for them.