Pet owners are refusing treatment due to the high cost of vet bills, one pet insurance provider has revealed.
The cost of vet bills has lead a number of pet owners to refuse medical treatment for their animals, new research from Sainsbury's Finance has revealed.
According to the pet insurance provider, 1.4 million cat owners and 1.26 million dog owners have refused suggested treatment over the last five years due to the costs involved. Sainsbury's interviewed vets and pet owners as part of the survey, with 80 per cent of vets confirming that they have had customers refuse treatment within the past five years.
The study found that age plays a part in whether owners will refuse treatment. A fifth of 18-24-year-olds have passed up vetinary assistance, compared to just seven per cent of pet owners over the age of 55.
Results also differed by region, with customers in the East of England turning down treatment more than those in other parts of the country. Some 22 per cent of animal owners in this region have opted out of surgery or a course of medication due to cost in the past five years, compared to just two per cent of people in the East Midlands.
Neal Devine, Sainsbury's Pet Insurance manager, commented: "It is heartbreaking to think that so many cats and dogs are having to go without recommended treatment simply because their owners can not afford the cost.
"Vet fees are rising and for those without pet insurance, this could mean there's a good chance this scenario could be faced by many more owners and their pets. It's incredibly sad and frustrating as the simple solution to this is investing in a good pet insurance policy."
