How much does it cost to keep a dog? How much does it cost to keep a cat?
According to one survey (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2008) the average yearly cost of owning a dog is $ 1425 and the yearly cost of owing a cat is $990. Other surveys but the cost even higher!
The annual costs of keeping a dog include:
According to one survey (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2008) the average yearly cost of owning a dog is $ 1425 and the yearly cost of owing a cat is $990. Other surveys but the cost even higher!The annual costs of keeping a dog include:
- food
-
flea, worm, heartworm and tick control (buy online at VetShopOnline.com - its cheaper :)
- vet visits (pet insurance can help) & immunisations
- a toy or two
- grooming fees
- brush & shampoos/conditioners
- collar and lead
- licence/registration fees
- pet sitting/boarding
If you're thinking of getting a cat, you'll be up for the same sorts of expenses (although generally because cats are smaller than dogs, there are cost savings).
Although USA has a very high proportion of pet ownership (some estimates say that there are more dogs and cats in the USA than humans!) the incidence of pet ownership seems to be declining a little, and cost does appear to be one of the factors. There are ways of saving money owning a pet, but you need to remember to keep these costs in mind.
Of course, there are benefits (including costs benefits) to owning a pet. For example:
- pet owners visit the doctor less and get sick less often
- pets (especially dogs) deter theft and break ins
- exercising your pet at the park saves on gym fees
- playing with your pet is cheap fun for you (and the kids!)
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