How Tariffs Are Raising Pet Care Costs: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Proposed Tariffs Could Significantly Impact Pet Care Costs for Owners Nationwide

By: Amber Grigley
Posted and last updated in Indianapolis

Pet ownership is growing in the United States. Many owners now worry that new tariffs may raise pet care costs. Tariffs on key materials are set to increase prices. Prices will rise for items from food to medicine for pets.

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership

Ellie Cornett is a college student with a King Charles Cavalier named Winston. She says pet costs can feel very heavy. You need to buy special food for a puppy. Each bag costs about $50, and the puppy eats one a month. Many students face this challenge along with tuition fees.

Steven Howes owns a Pembroke Welsh corgi. He sees that vet bills are also rising. Even the cost of vaccinations has nearly doubled. He shows that these costs hurt many pet owners.

Forecasting Cost Increases

A report by Rover, "True Cost of Pet Parenthood," warns of higher expenses ahead. Dog owners may see costs go up by 7%. Cat owners could face a 10% rise this year.

Professor Andreas Hauskrecht teaches business economics at Indiana University Kelley School of Business. He says many issues add to these rising costs. He points out, "Pet food is not cheap." His words back the worries of pet owners.

The Supply Chain Effect

Tariffs on steel and aluminum worry pet owners. They create a ripple in the supply chain. Professor Hauskrecht explains that soft food comes in cans. As tariffs make cans more expensive, pet food prices also rise. The United States depends on supplies from Mexico and Canada. This fact adds more trouble to food production.

Many pet owners worry that these tariffs will worsen price rises. They fear that higher costs will hurt their ability to care for their pets.

Commitment Amidst Financial Strains

Despite cost pressures, pet owners stay devoted. Steven Howes adds, "I think if you know avid dog lovers, it’s not going to stop us by any means." He loves his dog, Ollie, as if he were family, showing strong emotional ties.

For Hoosiers, Hauskrecht stresses that local supply chains play a big role. He warns that tariffs can affect pet care products right here at home.

Financial Projections for Pet Care

Rover’s report forecasts that by the year 2025, dog owners will spend between $1,400 and $5,200 per year. Cat owners may spend between $750 and $3,500 per year. As pet care costs go up, owners must pay close attention to economic changes. They need to plan and budget carefully.

Pet care is changing. Owners should prepare for rises in tariffs and supply chain shifts. Despite rising costs, the care and love for pets continue strong.

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