An increasing proportion of Britain's wealth is going towards veterinary fees, it has emerged.

Figures compiled by insurer Direct Line show that 22 per cent of dog owners have struggled to meet the cost of treatment for their pet.

With 11 million owners in the UK, the firm estimates that vet bills are adding a combined £1.5 billion to the national debt.

About 18 per cent of respondents revealed they had raided their savings to pay the bill, while eight per cent had turned to family and friends for loans.

"When a pet gets ill the cost of treatment can add up quickly, so it is important to make sure that you have a plan in place to cover the bills," comments head of pet insurance Chris Price.

For owners with no pet insurance, secured loans could be an alternative in order to meet the cost of veterinary treatment.

Sainsbury's Bank recently warned that obese pets are more likely to require treatment, while the average expenditure on dog food is £209 per year.ADNFCR-1287-ID-18317516-ADNFCR

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