Rising Costs and Tariff Concerns: How Pet Ownership is Becoming a Financial Strain for US Families

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership: Pet Owners Voice Their Concerns

SEATTLE —
Inflation persists and tariffs loom. Pet owners in the United States face rising costs. Rover’s True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report 2025 shows 52% of pet parents worry. Tariffs add to high expenses. Nearly 28% fear they cannot buy essential pet products.

The Financial Burden of Pet Care

Rebecca Greenstein, DVM, works with pet parents every day. She sees clear concerns about pet care costs. Pet owners worry about high expenses and rising prices. Greenstein, who runs Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital, advises budgeting. She suggests saving money and planning vet visits. Regular checkups and vaccinations help lower costs.
Rover surveyed 1,000 pet owners across the U.S. The survey covered many expenses from buying a pet to yearly care. The report estimates that a 10‑year‑old dog costs about $34,550. It also estimates that a 16‑year‑old cat costs about $32,170. Advances in veterinary care let pets live longer. This change brings more cost over time.

Impact of Inflation and Tariffs

Inflation and tariffs add more strain. The report projects cost rises in many areas. Pet owners face an 85% jump in treats and chews. Veterinary fees are expected to rise by 11%. Cleaning supplies for pets may cost 183% more. Grooming expenses might increase by 20%. Forty-eight percent of pet owners worry about lifelong pet costs. Thirty-one percent think pet product prices rise faster than household goods.
Sixty-nine percent of pet owners say food and treats take the largest part of their budget. About 25% now choose more affordable pet food or services. Still, 68% want quality products that match their own standards. Twenty percent search for products of even higher quality.

Budgeting Decisions Highlighting Pet Prioritization

Pet spending remains very important. Thirty-four percent of pet owners keep pet spending even when budgets tighten. About 33% cut costs elsewhere—like groceries and entertainment—to pay for pet care.

Insights from Canada

Rover also surveyed pet owners in Canada. Canadian pet owners face even higher lifetime costs. They may spend up to $73,585 for cat ownership and $53,935 for dogs. Yearly costs range from $930 to $2,400 for cats and $965 to $4,020 for dogs. Most of these costs come from food and treats. Rover expects an 18% jump in dog costs and a 41% rise for cats this year.
In response, 55% of Canadian pet owners now prefer domestically produced pet products. For dog owners, 57% choose Canadian-made items. Among cat owners, 52% favor these products.

Conclusion

Inflation and uncertain tariffs continue to challenge pet owners. They face rising expenses as they care for their pets. Rover’s findings urge pet parents to be aware of and manage costs well. Pet owners are adjusting their budgets to meet their animals’ needs.
For more insights into pet ownership expenses, readers are encouraged to explore Rover's True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report 2025. Stay informed on the latest in the pet food processing industry by visiting our news page.

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Pet Ownership in Peril: How Rising Tariffs Are Set to Strain US Pet Owners' Budgets

Tariffs Impact on US Pet Owners: A Growing Concern Amid Supply Chain Challenges

By Zhang Yiyi, Global Times

Published: April 21, 2025, 09:39 PM

Tariffs now hit the United States. They affect many consumer goods. Pet owners brace as prices rise. Tariffs cause a heavy load. Industry insiders warn US challenges grow. China experts see shifts soon.

Current State of the Pet Products Market

The pet market stays stable now. Distributors stockpile goods. They act before tariffs hit. Liu Xiaoxia warns supply chains will change. As stocks fall, she expects major trouble. Many pet items like toys, leashes, and bedding come from China. Tariffs force retailers to raise prices. Consumers face cost hikes. Prices climb while living costs soar.

Rising Prices and Consumer Struggles

An April report shows tariff effects can drive costs up. Tariffs push pet care prices higher. The World Bank data reports US imports pet food. In 2023, the US took in 313.6 million kg of pet food. China supplied 21.4 million kg worth $140 million. Pet owners feel the strain. A Rover report shows 28 percent struggle with pet essentials. Over half worry that tariffs add more cost.

Preemptive Actions by Retailers

US retailers shift their plans. They stock large inventories. This stock helps them handle future price shocks. Cheng, a CEO at a Chinese pet supply firm, notes orders surged in early 2025. His firm now covers three to six months of supply. Zhang, an exporter of smart pet products, sees tariff pressure. He says fewer US promos are a thin veil for price hikes. He adds that consumers ultimately pay the cost.

Industry Resilience and Future Prospects

Tariffs pose challenges, yet companies adjust. Chinese pet supply firms now explore global markets. They sell more in Europe. A manager claims their products meet Europe’s high standards. Liu tells us that big Chinese firms build plants in Southeast Asia. Exports grow in South America and the Middle East too.

Domestic Market Opportunities in China

China turns to its own pet market. E-commerce sites like JD.com offer subsidies. They help products hit US tariff walls. New demand grows as more Chinese buy pet goods. The 2025 China Pet Industry White Paper shows China had 120 million pets by 2024. Urban pet sales now top 300 billion yuan. Consumers seek both basic items and new multifunctional products.

Conclusion

The United States faces tariff challenges that disrupt pet care. Pet owners and retailers prepare amid rising costs and changing supplies. Stockpiles help now, but tariff pressures persist. Meanwhile, Chinese firms adjust and find new markets both at home and abroad. They invest in future growth despite these headwinds.

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Hamas Set to Free Edan Alexander: The Final American Hostage's Journey Home

In a key update, Hamas plans to free Edan Alexander soon. This step follows direct talks with the United States. It shifts the balance in the crisis of hostages caught in conflict.

Edan Alexander holds both American and Israeli citizenship. He stands central in debates about the current crisis. His expected freedom marks a win for efforts to end hostage situations. Similar wins were seen when other captives were freed.

Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy to the Middle East, confirmed the deal. He stressed that careful talks keep each word and promise close together. His comments show that the United States works hard to bring back its citizens while managing a risky region.

Alexander’s release is not just relief for his family. It also points to the wider pain of war felt by many. Discussions on hostages highlight the deep toll of conflict and the constant worry of families who wait.

Preparations for Alexander’s release are now in progress. Leaders watch these moves closely. Officials talk directly with Hamas and check many channels so that steps remain safe and clear.

This moment highlights the hard truth of a geopolitical crisis. For families like Alexander’s, the journey has mixed hope with fear. News of his coming freedom sparks optimism while reminding us that peace stays fragile.

As citizens and officials reflect on this change, attention will soon turn to other hostages still held and how U.S. policy might adjust in the Middle East. Alexander’s journey shows resilience, highlights human rights, and feeds a steady hope for calm.

While the world waits for Edan Alexander’s return, his case points to a need for more conversation and firm steps toward peace. His journey not only ends a personal struggle but may also guide future efforts to break cycles of violence and bring lasting calm to a tired region.

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Unpacking the Rising Costs of Pet Parenthood: Rover's 2025 Report Reveals What's in Store for Dog and Cat Owners

Rover Releases True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report for 2025

SEATTLE, March 18, 2025 – Rover leads the online market for pet care. It released its sixth True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report. This report uses a survey of 1,000 pet parents in the United States. Data shows rising costs for pet care in 2025. The report connects pet care prices directly with pet parents’ budgets.

Rising Costs for Pet Parents

Pet parents face higher costs this year. Dog owners see a cost jump of 7%. Cat owners may pay up to 10% more. A 10-year-old dog now costs about $34,550 over its life. A 16-year-old cat costs around $32,170. These numbers depend on breed, size, health, and lifespan. Cats usually live longer than dogs.

Inflation pushes costs up. New tariffs add to the rising expenses. Veterinary fees may increase by 11%. Pet cleaning supplies can jump by 183%. Grooming supplies may rise by 20%. Treats and chews may cost 85% more. Twenty-eight percent of pet parents worry they cannot afford care. Half (52%) fear that tariffs will add to the burden.

Initial Costs of Pet Adoption Decline

Adoption costs drop even as care costs rise. New dog costs range from $1,150 to $4,420. A new cat costs between $750 and $2,715. This drop comes with a lower adoption rate. Pets from shelters cost less. Shelter care usually includes vaccines and spay or neuter services. Adoption fees drop by 19% for dogs and 16% for cats.

Insights from Pet Experts

Dr. Rebecca Greenstein works with Rover and runs Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital. She points out that pet love is above cost figures. “The lifetime cost may seem high. Yet a healthy dog or cat can live for a decade or more. Their love is priceless,” she said. She advises pet parents to use budgets or save money. She also says to use regular check-ups and vaccines for preventive care.

Key Findings from the Report

The report shares more facts on pet spending:

• Growing Pet Population: In 2024, 20% of pet owners adopted a new pet. Another 33% plan to add a pet next year.
• Budgeting Concerns: Forty-eight percent of pet parents worry about rising pet expenses. Thirty-four percent say they will spend on pets before other things.
• Affordability Challenges: Sixty-nine percent report that pet food and treats take up the largest part of their budgets. One in four (25%) shifts spending in other areas to afford pet care.

Popular Strategies for Cost Management

Pet parents use several methods to manage expenses:

• Saving money for surprise vet bills (31%).
• Keeping a strict budget for pet expenses (30%).
• Using subscription services for toys and treats (19%).
• Choosing pet insurance to cut vet costs (18%).

Geographic Differences in Pet Care Costs

The report also checks costs in different cities. Data shows the cheapest cities for pet care. Top choices include Parsons, KS; Lawton, OK; and Anniston, AL. The priciest cities include Manhattan, NY; and San Francisco, CA.

The full report is online at Rover’s website. It shows detailed trends in pet care spending for 2025. ### About Rover

Founded in 2011 and based in Seattle, Rover is the leading online marketplace. It connects pet parents with caregivers for boarding, grooming, and dog walking. For more details, please visit www.rover.com.

Contact Information

Kristin Sandberg
Rover
Email: pr@rover.com
Phone: 360-510-6365

A photo for this announcement is available here.

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Exploring the Essentials: Why Pre-Veterinary Biology is a Game Changer for Aspiring Animal Care Professionals

For those who dream of animal care, a pre-veterinary biology major is a clear, transformative step. It gives students deep insights into animal biology and care. It also acts as a bridge to veterinary school. In this article, we explain the key parts of a pre-vet program, the hands-on work it offers, and why it is important for future veterinarians.

Comprehensive Learning Experience

The courses in a pre-veterinary biology program share their focus. They teach how animal bodies work. Anatomy, physiology, and animal behavior form a strong core. Each term builds understanding that a future veterinarian needs. Organic chemistry holds a special place too. It helps students see how basic chemicals support life. Students work in labs. They run experiments and see chemical actions up close.

Hands-On Experience

A key goal of a pre-vet program is to offer real practice with animals. Students look for internships or volunteer work at veterinary clinics, zoos, or animal shelters. This work is very valuable. In labs, students may focus on mammals, reptiles, or birds. They practice feeding and basic care. Such work adds to classroom learning. It also lets students meet many kinds of animals. This close work prepares them for any case they meet later. For example, working with rare species at zoos gives clear insights. These insights differ from those in traditional clinics.

Diverse Academic Opportunities

The pre-vet major often works well with other fields, such as Zoo Science. Schools even set up partnerships with local zoos. These ties let students work with large animals. They gain more skill in zoo care. Students also build strong applications for vet school. They shadow veterinarians and sometimes help in surgeries. Veterinary schools like to see this kind of hands-on work. It makes new veterinarians more ready and sure.

A Balanced Approach

Pre-vet programs can be demanding. It is important to balance study with fun. Joining music groups or sports teams can ease stress. Activities like these help students build community and network with peers from many areas. This careful balance improves both personal health and professional growth.

Affordability and Access

Affordability adds to the appeal of a pre-vet major. With available scholarships and aid, quality education comes without heavy debt. Many programs also offer mentoring. This mentoring helps students with the veterinary school application process. Such support increases the chance of success.

Conclusion

A pre-veterinary biology major goes far beyond serving as a step to veterinary school. It is a full educational journey that gets future animal care experts ready for successful careers. Through steady coursework, hands-on work, and a growing network in the animal care world, students build the skills, knowledge, and self-belief they need. As animal care grows and changes, the strong roots laid during this period will shape tomorrow’s veterinary care.

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Rising Pet Care Costs: How Proposed Tariffs Could Hit Pet Owners in the Wallet

Proposed Tariffs Raise Concerns Over Rising Pet Care Costs

By Amber Grigley
Posted: [Date]
Updated: [Date]

INDIANAPOLIS — Many Americans love pets. Pets bring joy and warm company. Tariffs on imports worry pet owners. New tariffs may push pet costs up. Households that care for furry family members will feel the pinch.

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership

Ellie Cornett is a college student. She cares for her King Charles Cavalier, Winston. She said, "You must buy special food for a puppy. A bag runs about $50, and it lasts a month." Her words stress the strain on her tight budget.

Steven Howes, who owns a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, sees costs rise too. He shared, "My pet needs are high. Even vaccinations now nearly cost double." A Rover report on the "True Cost of Pet Parenthood" says dog costs may grow by 7%. Cat costs might jump by 10% this year.

Impact of Proposed Tariffs

Economist Andreas Hauskrecht works at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He also cares for dogs. He said, "Pet food is not cheap." Tariffs may hurt many cost parts. Soft food in cans now costs more as steel and aluminum prices rise. Key ingredients come from Mexico and Canada. Tariffs touch every step in the chain.

A Commitment to Pet Care

Pet owners stay true to their care. Howes said, "Passion for our pets will not fade. Like children, they are part of our lives." Hauskrecht added, "Hoosiers should care. Indiana links closely to global supply chains affecting pet care."

Future Projections

Rover predicts that by 2025, dog ownership will cost between $1,400 and $5,200 per year. Cat ownership may cost between $750 and $3,500 per year. These figures warn of rising pet care prices. Tariffs and trade rules add to the climb.

Pet lovers will adapt. They balance their love for pets with the weight of costs. For more updates, subscribe to WRTV's Breaking News Newsletter.

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Rising Costs of Pet Ownership Amid Tariff Pressures: Are Shelters Prepared for Increased Surrenders?

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership Due to Tariffs Impact Shelters

IOWA CITY, Iowa - May 1, 2025 — In recent months, costs for pets have risen fast. Tariffs drive prices up. Animal shelters worry as more people give up their pets. Many potential pet owners now see pet care as a heavier long-term cost.

Forbes showed that caring for a pet costs a lot. A 10-year-old dog may cost near $34,550. A 16-year-old cat may reach about $32,170. Devon Strief, animal services coordinator at the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center, finds these numbers shocking. She says the high costs ignore many families’ economic troubles.

Tariffs, job losses, and housing issues add to the strain on pet owners. Darlene Olshansky, a volunteer and pet trainer, sees a worrying trend. Families get a pet, then learn that the cost is high. “They get them home and then see the full price,” she says. “Soon these pets end up in shelters.”

Strief explains that rising prices limit a family’s ability to give pets the basics like vet care and food. “Pets need a vet and food. More costs bring more problems for our community,” she says. Families must think hard about pet ownership costs.

With more pets coming to shelters, Strief advises prospective pet adopters to research all costs before they commit. The Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center now sees many more surrenders. “Shelters and rescues are full of animals,” Strief explains. “They lack enough cages and kennels to keep pets safe. It is not fair to the animals, and it is hard on the staff.”

Local communities now see pet care as a serious issue. Shelters ask for better planning and awareness from future pet owners. The hope is that more education and careful budget planning will let families enjoy pets while keeping them safe and healthy.

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