When it comes to adopting an animal, it's important to consider the financial implications of caring for a new member of the household. However, while most people only factor obvious items like pet food and medication into their budget, the reality is that animals can cause your heating and electricity bills to go up as well.
According to a recent survey of nearly 5,000 people by energy provider E.ON, around half of all dog and cat owners regularly turn the heating up when they leave the house so that their pet stays warm and cosy, the Express reports.
In addition, roughly a quarter said they leave the radio on when they go out so that their pet has some background noise to keep them occupied and stop them from feeling lonely while home alone.
Towards the end of last year the so-called Big Six energy suppliers caused something of an outrage when they introduced a series of price hikes, which is why pet owners are advised to keep an eye on the amount of extra heating and electricity their animals are using up.
