5 Costs to Consider Before Welcoming a Pet Home

Getting a pet can be a wonderful experience, full of love and companionship. However, it’s important to keep in mind that having a pet can also mean spending quite a bit of money. When you decide to adopt or buy a pet, the initial cost might be anywhere from $100 to $900, but that’s not the end of it. Here are five main areas where you’ll likely spend more money once you have a pet.

**Health Costs**

No matter how old your pet is, you should be prepared for significant health-related costs. These include routine vet check-ups, vaccinations, and neutering. Additionally, you might face unexpected expenses. For instance, a curious puppy might eat something they shouldn’t, resulting in an emergency vet visit. Older dogs might start developing conditions like hip issues or arthritis, which need ongoing care. Even cats that roam outdoors can have unforeseen accidents. You may want to think about getting pet insurance to help with these unexpected costs, but remember, that itself is an expense.

**Grooming Costs**

Grooming needs and costs can vary greatly depending on the type of pet you have. Some pets require very little grooming, while others need regular brushing and baths to avoid their fur getting tangled. For example, even my two relatively low-maintenance dachshunds need things like anal gland expressions, teeth cleaning, and nail trimming. Each pet has its own unique grooming requirements.

**Food**

Feeding your pet is another area that can impact your budget. Typically, the bigger the pet, the more you’ll spend on food. Skimping on good-quality food can harm your pet’s health eventually. Even with a basic diet, large breeds can eat food worth up to $100 a month. From my personal experience, feeding my two dachshunds a special (grain-free, corn-free) diet costs me about $60 every two months. Cats usually eat less than dogs and don’t overeat as much, but they still have specific dietary needs.

**Equipment**

Having a pet means you’ll need to buy certain equipment. Some of the essentials include food and water bowls, a cage or indoor gate, a pet door, a bed with bedding, a litter box, and toys. These are just the basics, and you might need more depending on your pet’s specific needs. Plus, many of these items will need to be replaced or upgraded over time.

**Traveling Costs**

Traveling, whether with or without your pet, can add more costs. If you plan to take your pet along on trips or need to leave them in good care, your travel expenses might increase. Arranging pet-friendly travel or using a pet-sitting service can be pricey. Even leaving your pet in a kennel for a few days might quickly add up to around $100.

While having a pet often brings joy that many people find worth the expense, it’s important to consider how these additional costs can impact your budget, especially if money is already tight.