Question:

Could you give me info on how to plan financially for owning a pet?

Answer:

This is a great question!

Getting a pet of any kind requires an investment of time, emotion, and money. Even a pet like a hamster will require a cage, regular cleaning, food, litter, treats, toys, and potentially medical care. Once you have determined what type of pet you want, do a little research by checking with friends, your local veterinarian, and visiting a pet shop. Make a list of the regular monthly expenses you will incur and also plan for the unexpected. Your list should include things like:

• Food
• Treats
• Toys
• Bedding
• Leashes/collars
• Grooming
• Training
• Veterinary care
• Boarding or in-home care when you are not available (traveling, vacation or personal emergencies).

In addition, consider the cost of pet insurance and consider having an emergency care savings fund set aside. As an example, a dog or cat that escapes from the house or yard and gets hit by a car can be catastrophically injured but may be saved with the quality veterinary medicine available today. The cost, however, can run into the thousands of dollars depending on the injuries sustained.

Dr. Revoir’s veterinary opinion should only be used as an educational guide and in no way should be substituted for licensed veterinary care. Your veterinarian should be consulted in all health matters involving your pet.