Financial Jungle

Introduction: My wife, Financial Jungle Gal, has written the following piece out of her own free-will. She’s been busy as a bee fixing up my goof-ups in every post - including this intro. To show a token of my appreciation, I’ve decided to share the fame with her. Please give her a warm welcome.

“How Much is That Doggie in the Window?”

If you are a dog-lover, it can be hard to resist taking home every puppy that looks at you with its doggy eyes through the window. The puppy is small and cute, oh so cute, especially when it does funny things like rolling around with its roommate or trying to terrorize a toy. The breeder asks for $$$$ or the pet shop lists the sale price for $$$$$$, but how much does it really cost to own this dog?

Here is a list of common items that need consideration for Fido (estimates):

One-Time

• Dog: $500 to $1,500
• Pet carrier: $50
• Brush: $10
• Leash / Collar / Harness: $50
• Dog Mattress: $30
• Food & Water Dish: $10

Annual

• Food: $250
• Vet Examinations/Shots: $100
• Flea prevention (such as Program or Sentinnel): $100
• Dental Care (Toothbrush/Toothpaste): $15
• Shampoo & Towel: $15
• Toys: $50
• Treats: $70

Optional

• Dog Training Classes: $75
• Dog Grooming: $45 each visit
• Doggy Day Care: $25 per day
• Dog Walker: $20 per hour

Wow, this adds up!

Of course, Fido does not need all of these things. You can save money on doggy day care and doggy walkers if Fido has a companion at home all day (ex. Human companions (stay-at-home moms, dads, kids, retirees, or other pets), or Fido likes to sleep all day. Some inexpensive toys include old socks, worn shirts, paper toilet rolls, and tennis balls.

Why do we spend so much on our dogs? It is tough to put a price tag on the intangible benefits we receive from Fido’s unconditional love. So although we may spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on our furry friend, in the end having a well-adjusted pet is priceless.

Disclaimer: Just a dog lover’s two-bits. Estimated costs based on a toy-size dog.