The Rising Cost of Pet Ownership: How Tariffs Are Impacting Families and Animal Shelters

Tariffs Add to Rising Cost of Pet Ownership, Shelters Brace for Surrenders

By Lauren Avenatti
Iowa City, Iowa – May 1, 2025

Pet costs grow. The government adds tariffs. Families in the United States feel this pain. Forbes shows a 10‐year dog costs about $34,550. A 16‐year cat costs near $32,170. These numbers stand firm.

Devon Strief works at the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center. She found the numbers shocking. “The number was actually really mind-blowing to me,” she said. Her words show a strong pet cost link.

Impact of Tariffs on Pet Care Costs

Tariffs join a broader economic plan from President Donald Trump’s time. Pet supply costs rise. Many families face hard truths. Some may soon find pet care out of reach.

Darlene Olshansky, a long-time volunteer, noted: “People often get pets without fully acknowledging the expenses that come with them. Once they realize the financial demands, many dogs and cats end up in shelters.” Her words show a clear cause and effect.

Shelters Brace for Increased Surrenders

Shelters see more pet surrenders today. Strief points out that job loss and housing stress make pet care hard. “They need vet care and food. Adding more costs makes problems worse for our community,” she stressed.

The Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center now sees these strains. Strief urges new pet owners to study long-term pet costs. “Shelters and rescues are full of animals. They lack the cages or kennels to keep them humanely long-term,” she said. Her words show worry for both pets and staff.

A Call to Action for Potential Pet Owners

The center asks new pet owners to check both the start-up cost and ongoing costs for food, healthcare, and more. Shelters are already full. Pet owners must act with care and give a safe home.

Rising pet costs and a shaky economy bring a hard test for animal care. Many families now face costs that might endanger pet welfare. With smart plans and clear choices, we can help protect our pets in these tough times.

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