Pet owners forking out for their furry friends

Pets can cost tens of thousands of dollars in a lifetime and some owners are going to extraordinary lengths to care for their furry friends.

From animal acupuncture to laser therapy and chiropractors, owners are going to all new lengths to pamper their pets.

But it is not about diamond-studded collars and gold-rimmed water bowls.

These pets have conditions which make their lives difficult, and their owners are forking out to help get them back on their feet.

Ten-month-old Archie has been hitting the treadmill since he was a pup.

“Archie’s had a bit of problem with his back legs and hips and so it’s helped strengthen his muscles,” owner Mark Dahlenburg said.

Veterinarian Dr Pin Needham said: “We’ve had three or four completely paralysed dogs that we’ve got back walking again.”

Two-year-old pooch Jim also uses a hydrotherapy pool to work-out without overloading his joints.

“The water’s supporting them and providing extra resistance,” Dr Needham said.

These dog owners are not alone.

A recent retail study has revealed Australian’s spend between $20,000 and $30,000 on each pet.

That is up to 12 per cent of the family budget.

Consumer expert Barry Urquhart said many owners are even spending more on their furry friends than themselves.

“More money on the care and feeding of their pet than they do on personal grooming,” he said.

“As the pet gets bigger, so too does the bill, hence, ownership of a horse can re re-written as poverty.”