It's always a pleasure to welcome a dog into your family, but that love and loyalty come at a very real price. Before committing to adopting a dog, be sure to consider these points of cost and commitment from our Powder Springs Animal Clinic vets.
Expenses to Consider
While considering the financial commitment of owning a dog, it's also important to understand possible expenses that can or will come with your new pup.
One-Time Expenses
- Purchasing your dog
- Spaying or neutering
- Cost of breed-specific surgeries such as tail docking
Recurring Annual Expenses
- Annual or bi-annual routine wellness exams
- Vaccines
Monthly Expenses
- Parasite protection
- Medication
- Food
Emergency Expenses
- Accidents
- Injuries
- Chronic Illness (diabetes, cancer, etc.)
- Sudden Illness (diarrhea, breathing difficulties, vomiting)
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 emergency care or sudden illness is a concern for you, pet insurance is another good option. This insurance certainly provides relief for the burden of emergency costs and exams, but it is important to understand the entire policy before agreeing to it.
Calculating The Average Cost of Owning a Dog
Estimating how much a dog will cost over time is a difficult task due to all the different factors one must consider which can impact the price, such as 1) the size and breed of the dog 2) the health risks of your dog's breed 3) the dog's coat and skin type (as grooming services may very depending on coat thickness) and 4) the services needed to keep your dog looking and feeling their best.
To get a more accurate calculation on the cost of owning a dog, you will also want to look at the current cost of dog food in your area, as well as grooming sessions, toys, beds, collars, training classes (if applicable) and more. Veterinary and grooming services range widely depending on location, so you will want to cross reference the breed you're getting and the average vet and grooming costs for that breed 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.
Wellness Plans
Many veterinarians offer wellness plans to help new owners budget for their pet's annual care. Some plans take the average annual recommended commitment cost and divide it into 12 easy payments. Check out Powder Springs Animal Clinic's wellness plans to find one that works for you!
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.