Money's tighter than ever, so Canadian pet parents are giving up their own comforts to keep their pets healthy and happy

Almost every Canadian pet parent is on the same page here — 90% say they're actively thinking about how to help their pet live a longer, happier life. And it's not just talk: 58% have bought pet health insurance for that extra peace of mind, while 55% are investing in health tech like wearables and diagnostic tools to keep tabs on their pet's wellness.

When money gets tight, pet parents know exactly where their priorities lie, and it's not with themselves. They'd rather cut back on dining out (51%), new clothes (38%), self-care (30%), coffee (22%) or streaming services (19%) before they'd cut back on their pet's needs. And this isn't just a temporary belt-tightening move: 8 in 10 pet parents expect to keep spending the same or even more on their pets over the next year. Even with their own wallets feeling the squeeze, most Canadians aren't willing to skimp on the fun stuff for their pets either — a striking 71% say they still spend on things like grooming, birthday celebrations and travel gear to keep their furry friends living the good life.

Thinking about pet insurance?

If you have a pet, you know the costs can add up fast: food, grooming, toys and especially vet visits.

According to the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, routine veterinary care for a dog can cost between $4,100 and $5,200 per year. And this doesn’t account for expensive emergencies.

That’s why paying for pet insurance often ends up being more affordable than paying out of pocket for surprise vet bills.

Instead of absorbing big, unexpected bills all at once, pet insurance helps care for your pet without blowing a hole in your budget.

Thinking about pet insurance? If you have a pet, you know the costs can add up fast: food, grooming, toys and especially vet visits. Paying for pet insurance often ends up being more affordable than paying out of pocket for surprise vet bills. Instead of absorbing big, unexpected bills all at once, Fetch Pet Insurance helps cover up to 90% of unexpected vet bills, and you can use any vet in Canada or the U.S. Fetch offers fast and easy reimbursements, and you can customize your coverage to fit your budget. Get a free, no-obligation quote in just 3 minutes with Fetch Pet Insurance and rest easy knowing your fur-baby and your finances are protected.

Bottom line

At the end of the day, this study makes one thing clear: for Canadian pet parents, their furry family members aren't just an expense; they're a priority worth protecting no matter what the budget looks like. Whether it's skipping a coffee run, holding off on new clothes or passing on a night out, pet parents are finding ways to make it work so their dogs and cats can live longer, healthier and more comfortable lives. As the cost of living continues to challenge Canadian households, one thing isn't up for negotiation: the wellbeing of the pets who've become an inseparable part of the family.