If you have an interest in getting a dog, there are many things you need to consider, including if you can actually afford it. We aren’t just talking about the price of the dog, because you can pretty much get one for free, or a minimal cost, if you adopt from a kennel. The main expense of a dog are those little fees that you will be paying for the duration of its life, so let’s take a look at what these might be, and the general ballpark figure that they will cost.
- Basic Supplies
There are going to be some general items you need for your dog, and most people will buy these within the first month or so of having the pet, so you should ensure you have a couple of hundred dollars to budget for all this stuff. Some of these items could include a dog carrier, a leash and collar, a brush, bedding, a basket, toys, and bowls. Bear in mind that your dog will need a lot of walking, so you might also need to purchase a raincoat for men if you live in a particularly wet area of the world.
- Dog Food
Your dog obviously needs feeding, and some, more than others. Statistics have shown that the average pet owner spends around $450 on dog food yearly, that’s around $40 a month. This could be slightly lower, or higher, depending on the size of your dog, and if they have any special dietary requirements.etc.
- Vet Fees
Probably the most expensive thing for your dog is vet costs. The average trip to the vet is around $60, and that is providing the dog does not need any kind of treatment. Research has shown that the average dog owner will have to pay $423 on a yearly basis in vet fees alone, this could be even more of course if your dog gets a severe illness. You need to consider all circumstances and be prepared for anything.
- Pet Insurance
You need to have some kind of insurance plan in place for your dog, this can reduce the cost of vet bills. Pet insurance is usually around $30 a month, but this can go up, or down, depending on different circumstances.
- Doggy Daycare
If you work often or have a busy lifestyle, you might need to use the services of doggy daycare, or somebody to walk your dog on a regular basis. The cost of this could go into the hundreds, depending on how long you need the services of somebody, but this will obviously be much less if you are away only occasionally and not for more than a few days at a time.
