Dogs are amazing and can become beloved family members, but owning one is expensive. Our vets at North Madison Animal Hospital have listed some points to consider before making a dog a part of your family. Make sure to think about them before taking on this responsibility.
Expenses to Consider
Before deciding to get a dog, it's crucial to keep in mind that various kinds of expenses are associated with dog ownership, so you need to assess whether it fits your budget.
One-Time Expenses
- Purchasing your dog
- Spaying or neutering your pup
- Cost of breed-specific surgeries such as tail docking
- Once or twice yearly routine exams
- Vaccines
Monthly Expenses
- Parasite protection
- Medications
- Food
Emergency Expenses
- Accidents
- Injuries
- Chronic Illness (diabetes, cancer, etc)
- Sudden Illness (Diarrhea, breathing difficulties, vomiting)
When it comes to expenses, it's crucial to prepare and plan for each type in advance to avoid any unexpected and unpleasant surprises.
Calculating The Average Cost of Owning a Dog
When it comes to figuring out the cost of owning a dog, the price can vary a lot depending on many factors. These factors include the size and breed of the dog, the health risks associated with that breed, and the services needed to take care of the dog properly. In addition to veterinary care and preventative measures, you should also factor in the cost of food, grooming, toys, treats, beds, collars, leashes, obedience training, boarding, and possibly a dog walker.
The amount you will spend on these things will depend on the breed of dog you choose and how much they need. The location where you live is another thing to consider. The cost of veterinary care, grooming, and dog sitting can vary widely depending on where you live. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of owning a dog, you should also consider the breed's risk of chronic illness and how much pet services cost in your area.
Ways to make the cost of owning a dog more affordable
If you really want a dog to be part of your family, there are ways to make the yearly expense of having a dog more manageable.
Set Aside a Money Just For Pet Care
If you're good at saving and budgeting, consider setting aside funds for veterinary emergencies. You can use a separate bank account or a safe jar to keep the money. Calculate the amount you would need for a veterinary emergency and save a reasonable amount each payday. This can help reduce the stress of unexpected vet bills.
Pet Insurance
If you worry about paying a lot for emergency care or taking care of a pet with a long-term illness, getting pet insurance might be a good option for you. Pet insurance can help ease the burden of expensive emergency care, but it's crucial to know what the policy covers before agreeing to it.
Wellness Plans
Veterinarians have wellness plans to help pet owners manage their pet's annual preventive care. These plans divide the cost of the annual recommended preventive care into 12 manageable payments. Pet wellness plans for dogs cover important preventive care such as annual core vaccines, 2 routine exams per year, Bordetella vaccine, 12 months of flea and tick prevention, and 12 months of essential heartworm protection.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.