Are you thinking about getting a dog, but you are not sure what type of costs you may have to deal with? Thankfully, we are here to help and we will break down both costs and benefits in a very simple manner. This way you will be able to see whether it can be a very good idea for you to get a pet or not. Let’s check out the information and see if you are fit to own a dog and if you can afford it.
Price
The first cost will be the overall acquisition price. If you don’t get it for free, a dog can cost as much as $2500, although some breeds start at $50. So, it can be quite an investment to get a dog right from the start. Just try to keep that in mind right off the bat.
It will also cost you up to $250 to spay or neuter your dog. This will be very important for the community and your dog as well, so try to keep that in mind as it’s very important.
Food will also cost you quite a bit. Depending on the breed, where you live and what you feed him, a dog’s food can cost up to $250 per year, although usually it can be half that.
Then you have the vet visits. These routine visits might also require around $300 in total, it can be more or less depending on where you live. Another thing to keep in mind is that the emergency pet visits can be extremely costly, people might have to pay around $5000 for them at times.
Pet grooming can also lead up to $400 in total costs, this also includes dental care, bathing, nail trimming, and brushing. Plus, you have toys and supplies that will come up with a price tag of up to $400 on their own.
Benefits
After you hear about all these costs, you might end up double thinking the idea of getting your own dog. Well, there are some benefits you need to think about here as well. First, you have fitness for free, since you have to take your dog for walks and running. You will also have a lower BP thanks to exercising alongside your dog, which is very good for your health.
Then there’s the fact that you have a lower anxiety level and no sense of loneliness. The reason is rather simple, you will be able to get some incredible results in the end. Dogs also offer protection, family fun and they can actually bring in a lot of social interactivity.
Yes, getting a dog is all about putting in balance the costs and benefits, then seeing if it’s worth it or not. Sometimes it will be very well worth it, other times not so much. As long as you take care of your dog and make sure that you feed him properly and take him to the vet, you will be able to harness all those amazing benefits. And that can always be amazing!
Special thanks to Golden Meadows Retrievers for the infographic.
