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Thrive » Pets » Dogs & Puppies » The Cost of Dog Ownership

The Cost of Dog Ownership

30 Dec 2014
0 Comment
John Walsh
Buying a dog, Puppies

Cost-of-Dog-Ownership

Figures for Fido Finances

Seeing a box of adorable puppies available free at the local farmer’s market can cause almost anyone to lose touch with reality. Such people might suddenly find themselves at home with a new bundle of furry joy but absolutely no supplies on hand to properly take care of their new companion. Whether dog ownership comes to you via a chance encounter or after a thorough investigation into the pros and cons of owning a dog, there are a number of expenses that will now be a part of your finances.

Some of the more obvious expenses will include:

  • Bedding
  • Collar and leash
  • Dishes
  • Food
  • Potential purchase price
  • Toys

The costs that you might forget to consider, whether in the heat of making an impulsive decision or simply from lack of thinking ahead, could include:

  • Boarding fees
  • Crate
  • Dental cleanings
  • Doggy day care
  • Doghouse
  • Emergencies
  • Fecal tests
  • Flea and tick control products
  • Grooming fees or supplies
  • Heartworm tests and medications
  • Identification source (collar tag, tattoo, microchip)
  • Licensing
  • Obedience classes
  • Outdoor fencing system
  • Outdoor kennel facilities
  • Outdoor run
  • Pedigree registration
  • Pet insurance
  • Pet-sitter fees
  • Potential increase in home owner’s insurance (for certain “high-risk” breeds)
  • Room gates
  • Spay or neutering fees
  • Treatment of chronic medical conditions
  • Vaccines (rabies, distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough, etc)
  • Veterinarian examinations (including a pre-purchase exam if you don’t already own the dog)

Approach dog ownership as you would any investment. Be prepared for the initial upfront costs and save a few dollars for those unforeseen emergencies and needs. Your dog deserves only the best of care. With a little bit of planning and budgeting, even after an unplanned arrival of a new canine buddy in your home, you can provide a high quality of life to your furry friend.

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