The Cost of Pets

I, like many of you, am an animal lover.  I recently got a puppy with my fiancée.  Stevie Nicks, the puppy, is a Golden Doodle and quite possibly the cutest thing that I have ever laid eyes on, excluding my fiancée.  I thought this would be a good opportunity to share some advice and warnings when it comes to adding a furry companion to your family.

First of all, be prepared to spend a decent amount of money up front.  Whether you purchase from a breeder or adopt, there are expenses on top of just getting your new best friend home: vaccines, spaying/neutering, and microchips can cost around $500.  You also have to consider the purchases like water bowls, kennels, leashes, collars, and carriers that you will want to have before you bring your pet home.

Then, there are ongoing expenses.  Yearly medical checkups, toys, food, flea and tick medicine, and treats.  According to nerdwallet.com, cats cost about $670/year, while dogs cost more than $1,000/year. This does not include pet walkers, sitters, boarding, or medical bills from a sick animal. Which, believe me, the medical bills can add up quickly.

This is not to deter you from getting what will become a loved pet.  Just remember to budget ahead of time in preparation for the new family addition.

-Clay Wood

Source: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/much-owning-pet-really-cost