Man's best friend costs a doggone fortune

A dog's naughtiness and hunger can led to some big bills. Photo / 123rf

Dogs are adorable, affectionate and protective companions but they're also a bit dumb and can cost their owner a lot of money.

Southern Cross Pet Insurance today released their top unusual claims from the past year, highlighting the downside to dog ownership and the vet bills they can rack up.

In first place was a Dalmatian that had a kebab stick passing from its stomach, across the diaphragm and into the right-hand side of its lung, costing the owner $6800.

A golden retriever was the runner up for eating a fish hook and line which had to be surgically removed, costing $2029.

A dog fight over hot cross buns saw the winner treated for raisin toxicity costing $1113, while a repeat offender spoodle ate Sudafed tablets then ended up back at the vet four days later after inhaling Ibuprofen tablets, costing $585.

Research from Southern Cross Pet Insurance surveyed pet owners and found that 32 per cent of respondents found it hard to pay for their vet bills. Tragically, one in 10 had to put their pet down due to cost.

People need to set aside extra money if they want a dog in retirement. Photo / 123rf

"It's not uncommon for vet bills to exceed $1000 and some of the most expensive claims we get are for animals that are ill or have inherited conditions," said Southern Cross Pet Insurance head Anthony McPhail.

"There's no animal equivalent of a public healthcare system, so if you don't have pet insurance it's wise to put money aside. Pets are a financial commitment at the best of times and even more so when they're ill or injured," McPhail said.

For retirees, the costs of owning a dog should be seriously considered says the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA).

The ASFA said the average cost of dog per year was A$1725 ($1794), and estimates that dog lovers will need an additional A$34,500 of super savings at the time of retirement to cover the cost of their companion.

"Many people would find it difficult to contemplate ditching the dog at retirement due to cost factors but it does happen and it's a tragedy for the pet and owner," said ASFA chief executive Dr Martin Fahy.

"With the cost of a dog or cat being tens of thousands of dollars over its lifetime and in some cases much more, depending on diet, health issues and age, it's worth checking your super calculations to make sure you have fully factored in your furry, feline, feathered or fishy friend."