Pet owners weigh euthanasia as vet bills climb

Rising veterinary costs are forcing many Australian pet owners to rethink how they care for their four-legged family members, with new research suggesting preventative nutrition is becoming an increasingly popular way to support long-term health. According to a national YouGov survey of more than 2,000 Australian pet owners, 41 per cent have felt overwhelmed by the cost of pet healthcare, while one in three say they would struggle to access $1,000 at short notice. Almost half (46 per cent) said they would consider euthanasia if

treatment costs reached $3,000. The figures come as the PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2025 found common health conditions can come with significant price tags. Skin conditions cost an average of $657 to treat, with complex cases exceeding $21,000, while gastrointestinal issues average $872 and can climb beyond $37,000. With veterinary expenses continuing to rise, more owners are looking at ways to support their pets’ health before problems arise. While supplements are not a replacement for veterinary care, targeted nutrition is increasingly being recognised as part

of a preventative health routine. Joint health, skin conditions and mobility are among the most common concerns for ageing pets, prompting growing interest in marine-based supplements. In partnership with Blue Harvest Aquaculture, researchers compared Australian blue mussels grown in Jervis Bay with a leading New Zealand green-lipped mussel supplement. The study found the Australian mussels contained more than 40 per cent higher omega-3 levels, greater bioavailability through phospholipid-bound omega-3s, lower oxidation levels and three to four times more betaine. “Jervis Bay mussels showed strong levels

of omega-3 EPA and DHA, with a large portion bound to phospholipids,” said Dr Taiwo Akanbi from the University of Newcastle. “This form is known for greater bioavailability, meaning the body can use it more efficiently.” The research underpins Marine Vitality, a 100 per cent Australian mussel powder for dogs and cats made from mussels sustainably grown in Jervis Bay. The single-ingredient supplement is designed to be mixed into a pet’s daily meals to support overall wellbeing. Animal naturopath and pet nutritionist Ruth Hatten said

preventative nutrition can play an important role in supporting long-term health. “As an animal naturopath and pet nutritionist, I only stand behind products that align with my values — clean, nourishing, and supportive of long-term health,” she said. Marine Vitality is positioned as a small, ongoing investment that may help support pets’ health as they age. While no supplement can prevent illness or replace professional veterinary care, many Australian pet owners are increasingly viewing preventative nutrition as one way to manage the long-term wellbeing of

their pets amid rising healthcare costs.

Australian pet owners, vet bills, pet healthcare costs, YouGov survey, euthanasia costs, PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2025, preventative nutrition, marine-based supplements, omega-3, Jervis Bay mussels, Marine Vitality, Blue Harvest Aquaculture, Dr Taiwo Akanbi, Ruth Hatten