Pet Care Costs on the Rise: How Proposed Tariffs May Impact Your Furry Friends' Expenses

Proposed Tariffs Raise Concerns for Pet Owners: A Costly Future Ahead

Indianapolis, IN – October 2025

Pet ownership grows in the United States. Many pet owners face a harsh fact: pet care costs now rise. Tariffs proposed by the Trump administration may add more strain.

Local pet owners feel the cost rise. Ellie Cornett, a college student with a King Charles Cavalier named Winston, tells us, “You have to buy the specific pet food for a puppy, which costs around $50 a bag, and he goes through that in about a month.” Students work hard to balance their budgets with this cost.

Steven Howes, who owns a Pembroke Welsh corgi, shares a similar view. He says, "Even vaccinations have almost doubled for me." Prices for care now affect both food and essential services.

A Rover report called "True Cost of Pet Parenthood" says dog owners may pay 7% more each year. Cat owners could see a 10% cost rise. This trend makes many pet owners worry as costs continue to increase.

Impact of Tariffs on Pet Products

The tariffs focus on steel and aluminum. These metals help make and pack many pet products. Professor Andreas Hauskrecht at IU Kelley School of Business explains, “Soft food is sold in cans, so obviously cans are getting more expensive because of the tariffs.” He points to a tight supply chain with imports from Mexico and Canada. This chain now affects the cost and supply of pet food ingredients.

Hauskrecht adds that Indiana is part of this complex chain. He says, "We, as Hoosiers, should care about this because it directly influences the cost of pet care in our state.”

The Future of Pet Care Costs

Rover estimates that by 2025, a dog owner will spend from $1,400 to $5,200 each year. Cat owners may spend between $750 and $3,500. Many families face hard financial choices as these costs grow.

Despite high prices, many pet owners stay determined. Steven Howes adds, “It’s like having children; he’s my third kid,” to show his care for his pet. For many, higher prices will not stop them from giving their pets the best care.

As tariffs take effect, pet owners must work through these changes. They strive to keep their pets safe and healthy.

For now, the pet care industry keeps a close watch on these tariff effects. Stakeholders look for answers that will ease the new financial pressures on pet owners nationwide.

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