Just how much does it cost to have a four-legged friend? More than you could have ever imagined!
Many prospective dog or cat owners only focus on the positive aspects of bringing a furry friend into their lives. And there are countless reasons why pets are great. But it's also important to have realistic expectations so you don't face sudden expenses that could hurt your financial stability.
«It's important to be able to choose a pet that is going to fit your budget and your lifestyle the best,» said Dr. Wendy Hauser, a veterinarian who founded her own consulting company.
When Melissa Chavez decided to get a toy poodle named Milo in the summer of 2020, she had an idea of the costs but was surprised by how fast they added up. Like many others during the pandemic, she saw her stay-at-home schedule as a perfect opportunity to get a puppy.
«I've never had any dogs before, so I think everything was a learning opportunity for me,» Chavez said.
If you are considering getting a pet, or looking for ways to cut costs, here are some things to consider:
Research Basic Costs For Your Pet
Initial costs for a dog or cat go beyond the fee to adopt or buy them.
First, you need to visit a veterinarian to get them vaccinated or do a routine wellness check, which can cost around $200 to $300. Once you get them home, pets need a bed, food, leashes and harnesses and grooming supplies, among other things. While these items are fairly inexpensive individually, they can quickly add up.
On average, you can expect to spend $1,400 a year for a dog and $1,200 for a cat, according to Kerry O'Hara, chief insights officer at APPA, the American Pet Products Association, a trade group.
Knowing how much you will initially need to spend when you get a pet will help you budget.
If you want to know know which items are a must, the American Society for
