Urgent warning to pet owners skipping one major thing could be devastating

Pet owners have been warned skipping vaccinations could pose their and cats severe risks.

One in six pet owners admit they have simply lost track of which vaccinations or treatments their pet has had over the years, while one in ten say they only take their pet for a check-up when they’re visibly unwell. This could be detrimental to the health of our animals, though, one expert has stressed today.

"Vaccinations are an essential part of keeping our pets healthy. Not only, along with a yearly health check, do they help protect from life-threatening diseases like canine parvovirus and feline panleukopenia, but they can also help owners avoid costly medical treatments in the future," Rebecca Keseru, veterinary advisor at MSD Animal Health, which offers veterinary pharmaceuticals and health management services said.

"Sometimes people assume pets only need vaccines when they are young, but dog and cat vaccinations do not last a lifetime, so our pets need regular boosters throughout their lives to remain protected."

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Ms Keseru and other experts have urged pet owners to act by prioritising preventative care, so pets can live longer, healthier lives full of everyday adventures and avoid unnecessary nights in hospital.

The message comes after a survey found more than 80% of Brits believe their pet is the greatest love of their life and, on average, the UK pet owner splashes out £1,400 a year on treats and toys for their beloved animals.

Yet industry figures from MSD Animal Health show as many as 58 percent of dogs - and 72 percent of cats - in the UK have not been protected with annual vaccinations in the last year and are missing regular veterinary health checks. Yearly vaccinations cost around £60 to £75.

Dr James Greenwood, a leading veterinarian, said: "This research confirms what we as vets encounter every day with our patients — many pets suffer unnecessarily from illnesses that could be easily prevented with a simple annual vaccination.

"Vaccinations and regular health assessments not only save lives but can also reduce stress and financial strain for pet owners. Whether pet owners are struggling to understand their options when it comes to vaccinations or are concerned about the cost, I’d always recommend talking to their vet about the treatments on offer as well as the health care plans that are available."

The study, commissioned by MyPet.com, shows 43% of pet owners in the UK have been forced to pay for an unexpected or emergency vet bill - costing £970 a time - because they delayed, or actively avoided, taking their pet to the vet (51%) due to the cost. Some 2,000 pet owners were surveyed as part of the study.