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.
Figures for Fido 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.
