Dog loan ad sparks welfare backlash

Monday 11 March 2019

A radio advert promoting loans as a means to buy a pet dog has angered animal welfare charities in the island.

The advert has been airing regularly on commercial radio, and offers personal loans for up to £25,000 to serve a range of purposes including going on holiday, or buying a ‘Cockapoo’ dog - a breed which can cost up to £2,000.

Founder of Guernsey Animal Aid, Sue Vidamour, said she found the advertising irresponsible.  

“I have to say I was shocked and thought that if someone spoke to them about it, they would realise if a person needed a loan to buy a dog, they would more than likely struggle with the ongoing care of the animal, veterinary treatment etc,” she said.

Ms Vidamour said she had often encountered people who buy a pet, but are unprepared for the ongoing costs. 

“We, as a charity, see far too much of denied treatment for animals due to lack of funds, and very often pay vets bills for people to save the life of their pets.

“We do a lot of neutering as well, at half price. In this day and age a pet is a luxury not everyone can afford,” she said.

The GSPCA also advised against taking a loan out to buy a pedigree, or specially bred, dog and said there were many rescue dogs in the island in need of a home.

Manager, Steve Byrne commented:

 “There are no laws we are aware of in Guernsey concerning this type of advertising. We do talk and work on occasions with certain online pages and media about concerns and thankfully they are dealt with very promptly.

“The GSPCA always advocates those looking to adopt or purchase a dog to ensure that the whole household is prepared and happy to do so, and that it is not a rushed decision due to the commitments a new pet, and especially a dog, requires.

“It is not only a cost to purchase a dog you have to ensure you can cover the costs of care, from the annual licence, to vets fees; pet insurance is always advisable.

“The PDSA worked out the average costs of owning a dog of between £6,500 and £17,000 in its lifetime in the UK, and with many costs much higher here in Guernsey, and our annual dog licence, the total costs here would be much greater,” he said. 

The loan provider declined to comment on the ad.