Britain's Love Of Dogs

01/03/2006 Britain's Love Of Dogs Cost £145bn As dog lovers prepare for the start of Crufts next week, Churchill's Annual Cost of a Dog Report* reveals that the nation's love of dogs costs £145 billion. The average cost of a dog now tops £22,000 over its lifetime, which is more than a brand new Mercedes Benz C Class and equivalent to a year's average salary. However, in reality over 90% of dog owners have no idea how expensive their prized pooch is. Although some breeds cost more than an average wedding - £19,500 - or even a first time house buyer's deposit at £24,000 - more than half of dog owners (52%) actually think the cost is less than £5,000. This equates to a huge £17,000 difference between perception and reality. Furthermore, the findings also show that increasing numbers of pet owners are not just simply buying the essentials. With one in ten owners splashing out on luxury dog leashes and eight per cent admitting to buying designer collars, it is easy to see how the costs can escalate. Despite these high costs, dog owners are more likely to complain about stray hairs (29%), nasty smells (14%) and using the pooper scooper (11%). However on a positive note, nearly two thirds (68%) of dog owners believe the companionship and unconditional love they receive from their dogs are the best things about dog ownership. Churchill's Report takes into account the costs of feeding, grooming and caring across a variety of the most popular breeds. The breeds listed have been chosen according to the annual number of vet visits ...cont/

By;- Churchill Pet Insurance

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