Have you found yourself standing face to snout with a puppy lately? We have all been there, you are going about your usual day, when you come across a pet adoption in the park. Suddenly, you are checking out at your local pet store with hundreds of dollars worth of puppy supplies. Before you splurge on that extra-plush dog bed, be sure to prepare yourself financially for the long-term commitment you are making to your new furry friend.
Annual Expenses
We all want the best for our dogs, and even the most basic necessities add up quickly. Here is a basic list of expenses you can expect when you add a fur baby to your family:
- Startup Costs– $550 – After you have purchased (or adopted!) your new dog, you have some essential startup costs (initial medical visits, collar, crate, toys, etc)
- Pet Insurance– $225 – Pets need insurance too! Vet bills can get pricey, especially in an emergency situation. Be sure to prepare your pet, and your wallet, for the unexpected.
- Medical Costs– $250 – Vet visits, annual shots, flea + heart worm prevention, etc!
- Food & Treats – $350 – A healthy diet is a vital part of your pet’s daily routine!
Be sure to remember this list is based on annual expenses, and will vary based on the size of your pet. For a more in-depth breakdown on costs based on your dog’s size, please refer to this ASPCA list.
Additionally, you have some choices when it comes to the above expenses – especially when it comes to your pets diet and overall health. For example, you might consider…
Organic Dog Food
We buy organic food for ourselves, why not treat our four-legged friend with the same consideration? Organic dog food has the same benefits for dogs as it does for us humans, such as:
- Better digestive health
- Greater immunity
- Higher energy levels
- And so much more!
Much like when we grocery shop for ourselves, anything labeled “organic” tends to be a bit more expensive, so be sure to plan for that when you are making your pet’s budget!
CBD Oil For Dogs
Often times, the biggest expense you can expect for our beloved pets comes in the form of vet bills. An easy way to save yourself the stress of high vet bills is with preventative care. Lucky for you and your sweet pup, advances in holistic wellness have led us, and our pets, to the “miracle” that is CBD. With an illustrious host of benefits, CBD oil for dogs is quickly becoming more and more mainstream in terms of pet wellness and preventative care. CBD can be peppered into your pet’s diet in a myriad of ways, such as CBD treats, chews, or oils. We recommend using any of Honest Paw’s products, since they are non-GMO, all-natural, soy-free, and lab-tested.
In Conclusion
Despite the scary numbers and financial figures in this article, having a dog is undeniably one of life’s greatest joys. So do yourself a favor and get a dog – just be prepared for the monetary commitment that goes along with it.
