Have you really considered the cost of pet ownership? Listed below are things you should consider before adopting a pet. Please read carefully and decide if you are ready for the commitment and responsibility of owning and properly caring for a pet!
Having and loving a pet is not a right, but a privilege!
The following items reflect the average costs of properly caring for a 30-50 lb. dog. Larger dogs cost a bit more, small dogs or cats cost a bit less. For cats 10-20lbs, it’s about the same. This list is for information purposes only.
- $20 per month ($240 per year) for a premium food such as Science Diet, Iams, or Pro Plan (costs based on 40 lb. bags of food, 20 lbs. consumed per month)
- $10 per month ($120 per year) for various dog treats
- $80 – $150 for annual vaccinations and heartworm checks
- $40 – $75 for a year’s supply of heartworm prevention
- $70+ for flea/tick prevention
- $40+ for each grooming session
- $14 – $24 per night for boarding the pet, or having a pet sitter come in during your vacations
- $50 – $150 for toys and miscellaneous items (this can go much higher!)
- $50 – $150 for a crate
- Obedience training (highly recommended!) – $120 for an 8 week program. Some programs offer discounts for rescued pets.
- Fencing – Actual or Electronic can cost hundreds or thousands.
- Older dogs often have more medical expenses (just like people!)
- Cat Litter for the month about $15 in a yr- about $180.
- Whiskas, Iams, Friskies etc. and cat canned food about $20 a month.
