Rising pet care costs. Hidden pet transport expenses revealed. CitizenShipper’s data-driven report empowers pet owners—and the industry—with critical insights.
As pet care spending in the United States reaches unprecedented levels – now surpassing $150.6 billion annually – CitizenShipper, a leading pet transport service, today announced the release of its 2025 Pet Ownership Cost Report. This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the rising expenses of pet ownership, from daily essentials to often-overlooked costs like pet transportation, aiming to increase transparency and help Americans plan for the true “price of pet parenthood.”
With total U.S. pet industry expenditures up 66% since 2018, the new report arrives at a critical time. According to the findings, the average U.S. dog owner now spends approximately $2,524 per year on pet care, while the average cat owner spends about $1,499. These figures encompass routine needs such as food, veterinary care, and supplies, underscoring the significant financial commitment that comes with owning a pet in 2025.
One cost category highlighted in the report is pet transportation – an essential yet frequently underestimated expense for pet owners. Whether relocating across the country, taking an extended trip, or arranging travel for a newly adopted pet, transportation costs can add up quickly. “Our aim with this report is to bring visibility to every facet of pet ownership costs, including those that families often overlook,” said Richard Obousy, CEO of CitizenShipper. “From the food bowl to the airplane cabin, every expense matters. By compiling and sharing this data, we hope to empower consumers and inform the pet care industry, ensuring that pet owners are better prepared for the lifelong financial responsibility of caring for their animals.”
Breaking Down Pet Transportation Costs
CitizenShipper’s 2025 report delves into pet transport expenses in detail, providing a breakdown of common costs associated with moving pets safely:
- Ground vs. Air Travel: Ground pet transport typically averages around $0.46 per mile, according to CitizenShipper’s marketplace data. By contrast, airline pet travel involves additional fees – roughly $125 for an in-cabin pet ticket, and anywhere from $500 to over $1,000 for larger pets traveling in cargo. Many owners also opt for professional pet escorts or “air nannies” to accompany pets on flights, adding to the cost.
- Travel Crates and Equipment: Pets often require an airline-approved travel crate, which can range from about $50 to $500 depending on the pet’s size. Other travel necessities, like harnesses or comfort items, may further contribute to expenses.
- Veterinary and Regulatory Requirements: Before any long-distance journey, pets need a current veterinary health certificate (commonly $75 to $250) to ensure they meet health and vaccination requirements. In some cases, owners must also obtain USDA endorsements or special permits for travel, especially when crossing state lines or international borders. These regulatory steps, while vital for animal safety, entail additional fees and preparation.
By outlining these components, the report not only uncovers the true cost of pet transportation but also serves as a guide for pet owners planning trips or relocations. CitizenShipper’s data-driven insights suggest that understanding transport expenses can help pet parents avoid surprises and budget more effectively for their pets’ needs.
Empowering Pet Owners and the Industry
The 2025 Pet Ownership Cost Report was developed to increase public awareness about the economics of pet ownership and to serve as a benchmark tool across the pet care and transportation industry. By compiling data from its internal shipment records and leading industry sources, CitizenShipper has created a resource that helps consumers make informed decisions and enables businesses to align their services with emerging cost trends.
“Knowledge is power for today’s pet parents,” added Obousy. “By shining a light on rising costs and trends—from veterinary bills to transportation logistics—we’re equipping families with information that can help them plan ahead. We also see this report influencing the broader pet care economy by encouraging industry stakeholders to innovate toward more affordable, efficient solutions for pet owners.”
With nearly two-thirds of U.S. households now owning at least one pet, the report’s insights come at a time when managing pet care expenses is more important than ever. CitizenShipper intends for this annual report to become a go-to reference for pet owners and a planning tool for anyone involved in pet care services or products. The full 2025 Pet Ownership Cost Report is available now on CitizenShipper’s website for pet owners, industry professionals, and media seeking in-depth data on pet care spending trends.
About CitizenShipper:
CitizenShipper is a U.S.-based pet transportation service that connects people with trusted drivers for shipments ranging from pets and motorcycles to furniture and boats. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the platform prioritizes safety, transparency, and community-driven service, helping Americans move what matters most—faster and safer than ever before.
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