In the face of astronomical vet bills that can leave pet owners in shock, some question whether owning a companion animal is now a luxury many can’t afford. Jane Phare reports.

An Auckland pet owner was forced to extend the revolving mortgage on her house by $20,000 to pay hefty vet bills when her dog needed medical attention.

Debbie* had recently euthanised her older dog and couldn’t bear the thought of losing another. She had spent thousands of dollars trying to prolong the older dog’s life, including $180 acupuncture appointments and vet bills of between $300 and $350 a visit.

Her remaining pet needed specialist treatment for a broken leg that included surgery to insert two plates and countless physiotherapy appointments, amounting to nearly $15,000. Then came an operation for a bowel obstruction after her dog accidentally ate a corn cob and needed a night in an emergency hospital.

Another Auckland pet owner told the Herald that “only rich people can afford pets” after she spent close to $20,000 trying to keep her beloved older cat alive after an accident.

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