| Anyone who is reading this is likely considering adding | | | | be necessary when your pet becomes ill. There is no |
| a dog to their family. While bringing a pet into your | | | | way to estimate how much a visit to a vet will cost |
| home can bring joy and companionship, the decision | | | | when your pooch is under the weather, but you |
| does not come without financial responsibility. Before | | | | should consider the possibility of this extra expense |
| bringing a pet into your home, ask yourself if you are | | | | before adopting or purchasing a dog. |
| ready to handle all of the responsibilities that come | | | | For peace of mind, health insurance is available for |
| with pet ownership. | | | | dogs. Pay a monthly premium and the insurance |
| Feeding a Dog | | | | company will reimburse you for most of the |
| The most obvious and ongoing expense for your dog | | | | expenses if your dog becomes ill or is injured. |
| is food. While the pet aisle in the grocery store | | | | Hardware and Dog Toys |
| offers many low-cost options, these choices are not | | | | Dogs need stuff! They need crates, collars, leashes, |
| always best for your dog. Like people, dogs need a | | | | food and water dishes, bedding and toys. |
| balanced diet and one that is full of nutrients and | | | | If you plan to leave your pet outside all of the time |
| proteins. Many cheap dog food brands are loaded | | | | (not recommended), then additional items such as |
| with fillers and do not provide the nutrition that your | | | | shelter and hay for warmth must also be provided. |
| dog will need to thrive. Since the dog is not getting | | | | Plan to spend $50-$100 before bringing your pet |
| what it needs from the food, it will likely eat more of | | | | home. This should be enough to cover a collar, leash, |
| it. This can end up costing the dog owner more in | | | | food bowls, a bed and toys. If you plan to crate train |
| the long run. | | | | your dog you will also need to purchase a quality |
| Instead, a quality food should be selected. Ask your | | | | crate. A good crate will cost between $45-$125 |
| vet for recommendations. While it may cost more, | | | | depending on the size that is needed. |
| your pet's health is worth it. | | | | A word on toys: Toys are not just a nice extra, they |
| You should also keep a supply of healthy treats on | | | | are necessary. Dogs need to chew and if toys are |
| hand. Treats are great for training and rewarding | | | | not provided then furniture and shoes will be used in |
| your pet. | | | | their place. |
| Vet Bills - Consider Pet Insurance | | | | Traveling with a Dog |
| All dogs will need to visit the vet at least once a year | | | | If you travel, dogs are an extra expense whether |
| to receive vaccinations. The cost of vaccines will | | | | you bring them along or not. If traveling without your |
| vary. If you get vaccines at a vet's office, expect to | | | | furry friend, plan to spend between $15-$30 per night |
| pay between $90-$150. Many rescue groups, such as | | | | to board your pet. If your bring him along, you'll have |
| the SPCA, offer low-cost vet clinics which may cost | | | | to consider the cost of shipping your pet on the |
| as little as $30 for annual shots. Also, check your local | | | | airplane and/or paying a non-refundable pet deposit |
| pet stores as some may offer a lower cost option | | | | at the hotel. Be sure to call ahead for airline |
| for routine pet care. | | | | requirements and hotel policies before planning your |
| Also, heartworm prevention medication must be | | | | trip. |
| given monthly at a cost of around $5 per month. In | | | | While there is a cost to owning a dog, the rewards |
| most of the country, flea prevention is a good idea | | | | of being greeted by a happy, healthy dog each |
| and costs approximately $10 per month. | | | | evening is worth the expense! |
| In addition to routine preventive care, vet visits will | | | | |