Before you buy a pet, read this
Human ownership of domestic animals dates back to the early days of Ancient Greece, where animals were sought after for hunting and protection. Today, pets are a source of comfort to us, and since the isolation during the Covid-19 lockdown, many South Africans have adopted pets for companionship.
But while they may be cute and cuddly, not everyone considers the expenses that come with this addition to the family. Yes, there’s pet food, toys, blankets and grooming but there are other recurring costs to plan for so your pet can have the best life possible.
HAVE YOU DONE ENOUGH RESEARCH?
According to South Africa’s 2023 pet ownership statistics “owners of a new pet can expect to spend an average of R30 000–R60 000 in vet fees within the first year.” This amount includes chronic treatment, medication, monthly check-ups and tests. Unexpected accidents or injuries that require surgery and hospitalisation can cost up to R25 000.
Since most South African households have a combined disposable income of R50 000 or less per month, these figures are a shocker. Before you buy, adopt, or rescue an animal, consider your family’s existing monthly expenses and whether there’s room for one more family member.
And let’s not forget that the breed you choose will drastically affect your budget. A registered pure-bred animal like an English Bulldog, Pug, Birman or LaPerm cat, can cost tens of thousands of rands.
Then, there are the recurring fees for annual vaccinations, sterilisation, microchipping, food, deworming, and tick and flea treatment – not to mention the professional grooming and behavioural classes.
If you choose to rescue an animal, you will pay an adoption fee of around R1 000 and your home will be thoroughly assessed to ensure that it provides a safe and healthy environment.
“60% OF SOUTH AFRICAN HOUSEHOLDS OWN AT LEAST ONE PET, WITH ONLY 1% OF CATS AND DOGS BEING INSURED”
DO YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY FUND?
Unexpected vet bills are inevitable. You also have no control over the actions of someone else’s pet when they come into contact with yours. Incidents can be fatal, and you need to be ready to act.
Take for example one anonymous participant in a recent IOL article whose dog was hospitalised for a venomous snake bite, resulting in a vet bill of R35 000. Financial experts recommend saving 3–6 months’ worth of your salary as a safety net and to avoid drowning in overdue vet bills.
Results from Statistics SA’s most recent General Household Survey indicate that “60% of South African households own at least one pet, with only 1% of cats and dogs being insured.”
This is problematic given that many South Africans aren’t able to properly care for their pets due to the high costs. Moreover, pets may develop conditions that require dietary alternatives, chronic medication, hired caretakers and physical rehabilitation, which amount to exorbitant monthly costs.
Signing up for a pet insurance policy will give you and your family peace of mind. There are local service providers underwritten by trustworthy insurance companies that allow you to choose the plan that can best be tailored to your budget and needs.
When choosing your pet insurance provider consider the coverage for: hospitalisation and emergency surgeries, pet dental work, sterilisation, routine care and booster shots, behavioural therapy, training, and a cremation benefit for when they pass on.
According to Dotsure pet insurance, plans can cost from as low R89 per month. Carefully preparing to keep a happy and healthy and pet may be overwhelming, but you will reap the rewards of their wagging tails or loving licks.
NOTE: Pet insurance does not work the same way as human medical aid! Read the fine print of your policy carefully to check the benefits and how the claims process works.
A Quick Pet Safety Guide
Besides factoring in monetary expenses, there are a few other home and lifestyle changes to follow to keep your pet, and those around them, safe:
- Keep electrical cords out of sight
- Cover up air vents and plug points
- Monitor for dehydration and lethargy
- Keep your home cool and never leave your pet outside in the sun
- Don’t keep toxic plants around the house
- Let visitors know your family’s pet rules when they enter your home
- Make sure your pet has a safe and comfortable nook away from visitors
- Never feed your pet table scraps, or allow visitors to give them random treats
- Always supervise your pet when there are visitors, especially if there are infants or toddlers around
For more information, visit:
South African Veterinary Association (SAVA)
The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa
Animal Anti-Cruelty League
Written by Charndré Emma Kippie
Images: Gallo/Getty; Freepik
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*Underwritten by Guardrisk Life Limited, an authorised financial services provider and an insurer licensed to conduct life insurance business in terms of the Insurance Act 18 of 2017. Foschini Retail Group (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial services provider. Ts, Cs, exclusions, limitations Apply- ask in store or see www.mytfginsure.co.za