Bringing an adorable puppy into your life is certainly tempting but it's important to understand that the love and loyalty of a devoted canine companion comes at a very real cost. Today, our Morton veterinarians discuss the cost of owning a dog.
Dog Care Expenses to Consider
When you are pondering whether owning a dog is within your budget it's important to remember that there are different types of expenses that can and will occur, at different times across your pet's lifetime.
Right from day one, it is important to be prepared for each of these types of expenses and plan accordingly so that you don't face any unpleasant surprises along the way, or find yourself struggling to provide your pet with the care they need and deserve.
One-Time Expenses
Purchasing your dog
Spaying or neutering your pup
Cost of breed-specific surgeries such as tail docking
Monthly Expenses
Parasite protection
Medications
Food
Recurring Annual Expenses
Once or twice yearly routine exams
Vaccines
Emergency Expenses
Accidents
Injuries
Chronic Illness (diabetes, cancer, etc)
Sudden Illness (Diarrhea, breathing difficulties, vomiting)
Calculating The Average Cost of Owning a Dog
Of course when it comes to estimating how much a dog costs the numbers vary wildly since there are so many factors to consider including the size and breed of the dog, health risks of your dog's breed and the services needed to keep your dog looking and feeling their very best.
Beyond veterinary care and prevention, to get to a realistic cost of owning a dog you will also want to look at the cost of food (based on how much your chosen dog breed will eat), grooming sessions, toys, treats, beds, collars and leashes, obedience training, boarding for vacations, and possibly the price of hiring a dog walker.
Another variable to consider is where you live. Services from veterinary care to grooming and dog sitting range widely in price between locations. For a true estimate of costs, you will need to consider the breed you are looking at getting, that breed's risk of chronic illness, and how much the pet services your dog will need cost in your area.
Ways to Make Dog Ownership More Affordable
If you have your heart set on having a dog as part of your family, there are ways to help make the annual cost of owning a dog more affordable.
Set Aside a Money Just For Pet Care
If you are good at saving and budgeting this may be a good solution for you. Whether you use a separate bank account or a jar tucked away somewhere safe. Calculate how much you would need if your pet suffered a veterinary emergency then work out a reasonable about to tuck away each payday. Having that money put aside may help to make veterinary emergencies less stressful when they strike.
Pet Insurance
If you are concerned about the high cost of emergency care or caring for a pet with a chronic illness, pet insurance may be right for you. Pet insurance can certainly help to relieve the burden of emergency care costs, but it's important to understand what your pet's policy covers before signing on the dotted line.
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.
Do you have a new canine companion? Our Morton veterinarians can help you to give your pet all the care they need to live a long and healthy life. Contact us today to book a routine checkup or puppy appointment for your new dog.
