In a recent radio segment, WVXU host Lucy May explores the financial burden of pet ownership with veterinary care experts in the area; to include Jennifer Wells, DVM, program director of the Veterinary Technology Program at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College.
Wells and the expert panel shed light on the growing challenges faced by pet owners and veterinary professionals alike.
The show cited a recently released 2025 Lifetime of Care Study shows rising pet care expenses across all species. According to the study, the cost of caring for a dog over its 15-year lifetime can reach up to $60,602, with the feline cost reaching up to $47,106.
The panel noted that veterinary costs continue to rise at a rate of 3-5% annually, driven by inflation, increasing supply costs, and the need to pay veterinary staff more competitive wages. Specialized services like veterinary dentistry, for example, can cost between $3,000 and $4,000 for an extraction or a root canal, posing a significant financial decision for pet owners, especially those without insurance.
Spay and neuter services, they said, remain in high demand, with high-quality, lower-cost clinics helping to address both population control and long-term health benefits, such as reduced risk of mammary tumors in spayed animals.
One expert noted that in just three weeks, a Cincinnati shelter received nearly 100 surrender requests for dogs and cats. The top reasons: behavioral issues, mostly with dogs, and financial or housing-related hardships for all pets. Even less traditional animals like chickens and goats can be costly to care for, and pet-related sports and training add another layer of expense.
The radio show highlighted the growing number of pet insurance providers and recommended resources like petinsurancereview.com, which can help owners navigate coverage options. Insurance, one expert stated, can also contribute to fairer compensation for vet techs-who remain significantly underpaid despite their essential role.
Listen to the entire broadcast:
Feature photo at top of cat at vet: iStock Photo/NataKor
