For many Torontonians, pets aren’t just companions—they’re family. But as the cost of living continues to climb, caring for our furry friends is becoming harder to afford. A new study from PetSmart Charities of Canada and Gallup reveals that nearly half of Canadian pet owners are avoiding trips to the veterinarian due to skyrocketing costs.

Veterinary specialist Dr. Marie Holowaychuk explained on CTV Your Morning that the price of pet ownership goes far beyond food and toys. From spaying and neutering to vaccines, microchips, and regular check-ups, the bills add up fast. For dogs especially, annual costs can range from $1,418 to $4,480—and a lifetime of care could run upwards of $50,000.

Toronto, a city that saw a huge spike in pet adoptions during the pandemic, has been hit especially hard. More pets mean higher demand for veterinary services—and with a shortage of vets across Canada, costs are only climbing. Add in inflation and tariffs on U.S. imports (impacting everything from pet food to medical supplies), and families are struggling to keep up.

The reality? Some pet parents are forced to put off care they know their animals need. Holowaychuk stressed the importance of planning ahead, suggesting pet insurance or wellness plans to spread out costs. Many Toronto clinics now offer monthly or annual packages covering basics like vaccinations, which can help take some of the sting out of unexpected bills.

At the heart of it, the rising price of pet care raises a tough question: how can Toronto continue to be a pet-friendly city when so many residents are finding it difficult to afford proper care? For now, it seems the best path is preparation—and pushing for more accessible veterinary services to ensure our four-legged family members don’t get left behind.