Costs will vary depending on where you live. Use the
worksheet below to help you plan for the adoption of
your new dog.
|
ONE-TIME COSTS
|
| Adoption fee. |
$__________ |
| Leash and collar. These may need to be replaced
in the future - and if you are adopting a puppy, that
may occur sooner rather than later! Remember that puppies
will chew and that collars may need to be replaced as
they grow. |
$__________ |
| Food and water bowls. |
$__________ |
| Bedding. This can be one of many types of
pet beds, or just a comfy towel or blanket that your
new dog can call his own. |
$__________ |
| Puppy shots (if you're adopting a puppy).
Puppies need a few sets of shots to help protect them
until their immune systems are fully developed. |
$__________ |
| Spay/neuter surgery. This will prevent adding
to the pet overpopulation problem (even if you are able
to find homes for the litter, that means there are even
fewer available homes for the pets waiting at animal
shelters and rescue organizations). Some shelters and
pet rescue organizations include the cost of spay/neuter
surgery in their adoption fee. If you cannot afford the
cost of surgery, ask your local vet or SPCA about
spay/neuter programs you may qualify for.
|
$__________ |
| Identification. This can include a city license
tag, general ID tag, tattoo, and/or microchip. It's important
for your pet to wear proper, up-to-date ID at all times, just
in case he gets lost!
|
City License: $__________
ID tag: $__________
Tattoo: $__________
Microchip: $__________
|
| Grooming supplies - brush/comb, nail clippers, etc.
|
$__________ |
| Kennel or crate. You can kennel-train a pup so
that you don't have too much of a mess... plus the
kennel or crate is convenient for times when you have to
safely confine your pet, ie. travel, moving day, etc.
|
$__________ |
|
ON-GOING COSTS
|
| Dog food (dry/moist). Factor in any additional
costs if your dog requires prescription food.
|
$__________ |
| Treats. Who can resist giving the occasional
treat? Include items such as dog cookies, soft treats,
"chewies", and so on.
|
$__________ |
| Toys. Keep your pet occupied and happy with at
least one or two great toys. Toys often get destroyed in
play, so they need to be replaced.
|
$__________ |
| Annual check-up and shots. A regular visit
to the vet will help to ensure your pet remains healthy
and that any problems are caught early.
|
$__________ |
| Heartworm, flea, and/or tick medication. If you
live in an area where these are a problem, your dog should
be regularly treated. You will also need to budget for these
medications if you and your dog intend to travel to an area
where these are a problem.
|
$__________ |
| Boarding or pet-sitting costs. Includes
doggy daycare or overnight boarding if you don't
intend to take your dog when you travel.
|
$__________ |
| Grooming. Some dog breeds have higher grooming
needs than others. Budget for these costs if you plan to
use the services of a professional groomer.
|
$__________ |
| Dog license fees. Check with your municipality
to see what fees are applicable. Some cities will discount
the fee if your dog is spayed or neutered.
|
$__________ |
|
ADDITIONAL COSTS
|
| Puppy expenses. Puppies are adorable, but they
come with the knowledge that puppies also love to chew!
Set aside some money to repair or replace items that
are destroyed by a happy pup.
|
$__________ |
| Unforeseen or emergency veterinary care. Pets
can become ill, too ... and sometimes it may require only
a check-up at your friendly neighbourhood vet's, at other
times it can be serious and require hospitalization or
specialized treatment. Some pet owners choose to purchase
pet insurance for peace of mind. Include in your budget
a thorough dental cleaning every few years or as
recommended by your vet.
|
$__________ |
