Pets & Debt

gemsaysdontdodebtkids

Does anyone else get disapproving looks from people when they reveal they are in debt, because they have a pet? I've had at least 3 people ask me how I can have a pet if I can't afford it.

Cheeky (my lop-eared house bunny) only costs me approx £2 a week - and that covers everything, food, hay, even vet bills and vaccines!

I wouldn't buy a dog, I can't afford to keep one, but I still don't begrudge other debt-ridden dogowners their pets - they're like a part of the family!

Having my rabbit is sometimes all I've got to make me happy - the only currency he knows is carrots and yoghurt drops!

Skint_Catt

Personally I don't get people who are in debt but adopt every animal going! I know they need help but even so!

But if they are already part of the family then that's fine - people have kids and they're more expensive!! :rotfl:

I'm petless at the mo - but would never have got rid of my cats over the years - I'd rather feed them than myself.

gravitytolls

I guess you ned to weigh up the cost, both financial and emotional.

If your hobby was once dogs and fast cars, then you hit hard times; you get rid of the fast cars, but I can't see theharm in keeping the dog.

We have 2 dogs and a cat. We already had them when we fell on hard times, but they are part of the family, and we'd no more send them,a way than we would the chldren.

The thing is, we all need something in our lives. Whether we are in debt or not, we have a right to a life, not just an existence. I don't think a few pounds a week on a pet is such an extravagance that it should be frowned upon.It helps keep you both emotionally, and physically healthy (if it's one that needs walking). A sight cheaper than gym membership.

gemsaysdontdodebtkids

Chasing my bunny around the flat is one of his favourite games. It keeps me fit too!

*zippy*

I'm amazed at that gem, who would judge someone for having a bunny

Skint_Catt

Stroking most pets lowers blood pressure even without the five mile walk!

misspoppy

£2 a week for a bunny, please what are these people on, the emotional support you get from a pet is well worth £2 a week and lets face it if you have to have a few value lines to balance it out then its non of anyone elses business.

If you have a very expensive pet or show them then its a different matter i'm sure thats costly but a even a dog isn't that expensive, and if you need medical treatment there are charities that will help if necessary.

Shineyhappy

There is a huge difference to being in debt and having 12 horses than having a bunny!

I have a hamster and I spend more than 2 pounds a week on him! He is spoilt rotten and he is worth every penny.

Dont let anyone make you feel guilty for having a pet. Plenty of people in debt have some form of luxury and personally I wouldnt count a pet that costs less than 10 pounds a month as a luxury!

Btw I am very jealous as I would love a bunny so please post a photo! :j

lowlowlola

my cat costs me approx £4 per week, -- i have no children, don't have a car, rarely go out and haven't had a takeaway since Aug 06! I have taken full reponsibilty for my debts and 40% of my salary goes to paying it off each month. She is worth every single penny and i could n't have got through all this with out her,. Her fur has mopped my tears many a time and she is the sunshine in my day,, so anyone who disaproves can whistle - be loud and proud about your bunny:p

*zippy*

lowlowlola wrote: »

my cat costs me approx £4 per week, -- i have no children, don't have a car, rarely go out and haven't had a takeaway since Aug 06! I have taken full reponsibilty for my debts and 40% of my salary goes to paying it off each month. She is worth every single penny and i could n't have got through all this with out her,. Her fur has mopped my tears many a time and she is the sunshine in my day,, so anyone who disaproves can whistle - be loud and proud about your bunny:p

Well said

postingalwaysposting

please dont feel guilty for having a pet... when i was in debt i was paying about £20 a month for my animals and thats just food... thankfully mum pays everything for the cat ~ food wise i must say bedding etc for the rabbits/snails is another roughly £20 every 4 months... but i wouldnt have it any other way and you shouldnt feel guilty either... i must add though once all these go to rainbow bridge than i wont get anymore (except a cat) as they are a lot of energy