How Tariffs Could Spike Pet Care Costs: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Proposed Tariffs Could Increase Pet Care Costs for Owners

Rising Expenses for Pet Owners

INDIANAPOLIS — Tariffs by former President Trump may raise pet care costs. Tariffs push up the price of pet food and supplies. Pet owners face more expenses as costs rise.

Ellie Cornett, a college student, owns a King Charles Cavalier named Winston. She says, “You have to buy special pet food for a puppy. It costs about $50 per bag. He eats one bag each month. That cost is a big burden for a college student.” Steven Howes, who owns a Pembroke Welsh corgi, says vaccinations now cost much more. He notes, “Vaccinations seem to have almost doubled for me.”

Projected Increases in Pet Care Costs

A Rover report named "True Cost of Pet Parenthood" shows dog owners may pay up to 7% more. Cat owners could see prices rise by about 10%. As pet food and medical care cost more, the tariffs make financial worries grow.

Professor Andreas Hauskrecht from the IU Kelley School of Business points out that tariffs affect the pet care industry. He explains, “Soft food comes in cans. Cans cost more now because tariffs hit steel and aluminum.” He adds that Mexico plays a key role in this supply chain.

The Passionate Commitment of Pet Owners

Many pet owners stay devoted to their animals despite higher costs. For Howes, his dog Ollie is not just a pet; he feels like a child. He says, “Avid dog lovers will not let cost get in the way. Ollie is like my third kid.”

Hauskrecht asks Hoosiers to see the big picture. Indiana plays an important part in complex supply chains that move pet products.

Future Projections for Pet Care Costs

Rover predicts that, by 2025, owning a dog may cost between $1,400 and $5,200 per year. For a cat, yearly expenses may range from $750 to $3,500. Pet owners try to handle rising costs and new tariffs. They care deeply for their pets. Many call for more understanding of how policy changes shape pet care. The article shows the real struggles of pet owners and the strong bond they share with their animals.

contact mindful ai media creations here: mindfulaimedia@gmail.com