Groot’s owner Liv Arnold said the seven-year-old Maltese shih tzu is a fussy eater and “likes the finer things in life” such as quail eggs, scallops and lobster bisque.
Arnold said Groot’s monthly food bill is about $500, while other expenses included about $1000 a year on vet bills to treat allergies, treats , grooming and dog toothpaste and mouthwash . Jo Lusk has a 16-year-old Persian, Mr Bits, who has a heart condition that requires daily medication.Credit:“He has had several cardiologists attending to his care over the years as well as a general vet and is currently on four-to-five pills twice daily,” she said.
She said owners wanted to feed pets the same types of ingredients they want in their own foods, while pet clothing and accessories were influenced by trends in children’s fashion or baby toys.