June 14, 2009

Can you afford a dog? Consider the hidden costs

Among the one-time costs new owners can expect after bringing home a dog:

• Basic supplies: Food bowls, a leash and toys can cost $35 to $50 even if you restrain yourself. Crates can cost an additional $50 to $150, depending on the size.

• Transport: Small-dog owners may want to get a carrier, so they should add another $45 or so to their budget. A hammock or vehicle harness for a larger dog typically costs $25 to $50.

• License: Most municipalities require licensing, which typically costs $10 to $20.

• Spaying and neutering: Getting your dog fixed runs at least $65 to $95.

• Training: Puppy training or obedience courses will cost you anywhere from $99 to thousands of dollars depending on your goals and quality of trainer.

• ID tag: One optional cost is having a microchip implanted under the dog’s skin, which provides a permanent identification tag if the dog is lost. The chip itself costs about $50, and providers charge varying rates for activating it. The AKC’s service requires a one-time $19.95 activation fee. Some companies charge annual fees, about $15, to maintain the tracking service.

Recurring costs include:

• Food: What you can expect to pay to feed your new pet will depend on the size of your dog and the quality of the food. A 15-pound bag of dry food from a well-known national brand should cost about $17 at a grocery store, and will last two to four weeks, depending on the size of your dog (an average of $225 to $450 per year). Canned, or wet, food tends to be more expensive. The better quality dog foods average about $2 per pound.

• Health care: Expect to pay $200 to $300 a year for nonemergency vet bills, including an annual exam and preventive care for common problems such as heartworm, fleas and ticks. Owners also should anticipate that if there’s ever a need for emergency services, they can be very expensive.

If vet costs are an issue, the AKC recommends pet health insurance. Coverage runs about $250 to $550 a year depending on the dog’s breed and age, and should be carefully researched before purchasing.

• Grooming: Professional grooming services are a necessity for certain breeds. Prices vary widely depending upon location and breed. It’s advisable to do some Internet research as to what groomers in your area charge. Pay particular attention if you’re interested in a large dog with long hair, such as an Afghan Hound.

• Sitters, walkers: Extras such as doggie day care can cost $25 to $50 per day, depending on region. Dog walkers typically charge $15 to $20 per walk, based on the length of time they’re out.

• Boarding: Again, rates can vary widely, but as a benchmark expect to pay $20 to $60 per day, with rates rising around holidays and during peak summer periods.

READ COMPLETE ARTICLE: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/pets/dogs/6232213.html

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