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.