Last week I adopted a puppy from the Humane Society. It’s no secret that any pet will cost money, so I figured it would be an interesting exercise to see how much the pup is costing per month. This is what was spent in the month of Feb. I adopted him on the last day of the month so it wasn’t much:
February 2011
Adoption fees: $90
This includes first set of shots, micro-chip, etc
Total for 2011:
$90
In March, I’ve already spent money on a Kennel crate, leashes and collars. I still need to get dog food, dishes and a couple toys before I bring Otis home. I also know that neutering will cost $25.
What about you?
I need your help dog lovers! What is a good brand of Puppy food? What other expenses will I encounter this first year? In your opinion, what is frivolous and what is a necessity?
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I would find a good veterinarian and have them recommend a good dog food. You may also have to try one or two kinds, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach or dog food allergies. Our dog would throw up unless we fed her special sensitive stomach formula type dog food. So it really depends.
Other costs that we incur on a regular basis for our dog:
1. Vet costs: a couple hundred a year on regular shots, vaccinations/etc. Also budget for emergency vet costs.
2. Grooming: We take our dog to a groomer to get her hair cut. We tried doing it on our own, but the poor dog looked horrible.
3. Pet food & treats.
4. Dog toys: Not too expensive, but maybe $20-40/year.
Expenses to skip?
1. Pet insurance: Just make sure you have a fully funded emergency fund, and you won’t need it.
2. Pet psychologist: Your dog doesn’t need one.
Pet psychologists?! I didn’t even know those existed! Sounds like a reasonable budget. What about things like doggie day care and dog parks? I’ll probably just walk the lil guy myself, but I know some people use them.
I’ve been putting off getting a dog because i’m afraid it will get too expensive. My brother’s dog got hit by a car and had a $6000 vet bill. (the dog was ok though)
He also had to put up new fencing, and 2 more emergency vet trips that cost around $10,000 total.
I really want one, but i think i’m going to wait a little while