Urgent warning to dog owners over spiralling vet bills – our breed costs us £3,000 a year
EXPERTS have warned first-time dog owners that a certain breed can attract spiralling vet bills.
The alarming claims follow a social media video where animal lovers said their French Bulldog costs them more than £3,000 a year.
TikToker @house_of_louis filmed his puppy as it meandered around the home.
However, the cute clip was met with a cautionary tale.
He said: “Our oldest [French bulldog] lived to be 15.
“I estimate its lifetime vet bills to be £52,477.”
The dog owner’s warning had mixed reviews, however, most canine enthusiasts agreed they were happy to fork out for their pups.
“Worth every penny,” a TikTok user said.
“We have a one-year-old and thankfully no issues so far,” one added.
“I’ve got three Frenchies, one is sick a lot… so yeah very expensive, but worth it,” a second remarked.
“I’ve had my French bulldog for two years… in its first year we spent thousands in vet bills but thankfully we had insurance.”
According to dog experts, Wag!, French bulldogs were likely to have health issues due to their anatomical make up.
A spokesman said: “Though the Frenchie is mild-mannered, playful and sweet, they do come with a host of health problems.
“That cute face that we all love is actually a product of selective breeding, which has deformed the breed’s face, nose and bones in such a way that has made certain medical issues a breed standard, such as breathing and respiratory issues that cause their low energy levels and high risk of heat stroke.”
While Wag! claimed treatment for medical conditions was costly, preventative measures also wracked up a hefty bill.
A spokesman said: “Preventative care for pets can be expensive and pet insurance plans usually don’t cover these costs.
“Due to the presence of brachycephalic syndrome in the breed, they also need an appropriate harness that puts less pressure on their neck.
“And since many dogs also experience skin allergies, a shampoo for sensitive skin may also be in order.”
It comes as another dog owner was landed with a £20,000 bill after their pooch was rushed to the vet.