Can You Afford To Live With A Pet? Plan Before You Purchase Or Adopt
The animal shelters of this country are full of abandoned pets that weren't fully considered before they were brought home. Pet ownership is truly a labor of love, but just like having kids, there's a money aspect to every area of that commitment.
Here are some important money issues to consider before you bring home a pet:
Are you allergic? Wait – what does sneezing have to do with affording Fido ? Plenty. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are almost 10 million pet owners who have some sort of allergy to their pets. Check to see if you or your kids might be allergic to your chosen animal before you bring him home – or at least check your healthcare policy for coverage for allergy shots or other medications that can help you co-exist.
Make sure your home/rental policy allows pets: There are some insurers who'll reject you if you have a large-breed dog. Check your coverage before you get the pet. You might also get stuck with a large pet deposit if you're a renter, usually half of which is nonrefundable. Keep in mind you're responsible for repairing damages to the rental caused by your pet.
Watch that grocery bill: Depending on the pet and your desire to give them only the best, an annual pet food bill can cost between $150 - $400. This isn't an argument for buying generic, but when it comes to pet food, always clip the coupons and check around to various pet stores for case discounts on your pet's gourmet chow. And confirm with your vet whether you're giving your pet the right amount of food and at the right time. Your vet may also recommend some lower-priced, healthy alternatives.
Your pet's stuff: What stuff does a pet need? Well, lots more than most of us expect. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals the average annual bill for toys and treats for a medium-size dog is around $75. For a cat, it's around $50. This, of course, does not count multiple pet beds, crates, carriers, litter boxes (and litter) or the occasional piece of couture.
Doctor, doctor: Vet bills can be the scariest financial aspect of pet ownership, and dealing with them spurs the most debate. In major metro areas, annual vet bills can average $100 - $250 just for the basics, which include an annual vaccination and checkup – no medication. For more serious matters – cancers, joint and bone problems – bills easily run into the thousands. There are pet insurance companies, but financial experts argue whether premiums justify the benefits. According to the Humane Society of the United States , there are other affordability options:
- Ask the vet to let you negotiate a payment plan;
- Contact your local shelter to see if there are subsidized veterinary clinics in your community;
- If you have a specific breed, contact the national club for that breed and see if they might have a veterinary assistance fund;
- Ask your vet to submit an assistance request to American Animal Hospital Association Helping Pets Fund .
When looks are everything: There are some people who may wait weeks for a haircut but their dog always looks fabulous. Vanity is one thing, but grooming is an important function for all pets, principally so their claws are maintained and that overgrown or matted hair doesn't get the chance to cause skin or infestation problems. Talk with your vet first about what he or she believes is a proper grooming regimen for your pet, and shop for a groomer based on experience and familiarity with your pet's breed. Grooming rates vary by community and size of the pet, with per-visit rates range from $20 - $100.
Daycare, pet-sitting and lodging: Very few people can take time out of their workday to go home and walk and play with their pets. Likewise, many people fear taking pets on cross-country trips in cars and planes. That's why daycare and lodging services are so popular – and not exactly cheap. Depending on the community, daily dog-walking services can cost $20 and up, overnight kennel fees may go well over $30, and pet-sitting services can cost $50 a day or more. It's always best to get references from local services, veterinary clinics and most important, fellow pet owners. Also, check the Web site for the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.
Article source: fpanet.org
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