7 Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet
I am not going to add in the cost of the pet because most individuals figure that in, whether it is free or not.
1. Does the animal need to be spade or neutered?
If you adopt, this is usually in the fee. If you do not adopt and the animal is younger or needs to be spade or neutered, this is something to think about. The costs will vary depending on the animal, veterinarian, and the services that are provided but the cost can be $125 and up. Call veterinarians in your area and ask your family and friends for a recommendation. If your income is low, there are places that will discount their prices or may offer them for free but there are qualifications. Do your homework and choose a veterinarian you are comfortable with.
2. What do you need to buy your pet?
You may need a bed or pad for them to sleep on, housing, carrier, collar or harness, leash (standard or retractable), toys, name tag, shots for a puppy or a kitten and then additional adult shots, food and water bowl, doggy door for the animal to come in and out as they please. A Cat will need a litter box and litter. All these items can be expensive to buy.
3. Ongoing monthly costs.
Food and treats, flee and heartworm medication, grooming, litter, and veterinarian costs if the animal is sick or injured.
4. Restricted areas and outdoor accommodations.
If you don’t want your animal in a certain area of the house, then you may want to purchase a barrier such a baby gate. If you don’t have a fenced in backyard, you may want to think about purchasing a pen for the outdoors. Some may fence in their backyard strictly for their animal to roam.
5. Boarding costs or pet sitters.
If you are planning a trip or will be away from home for a period of time, what arrangements can be made for your pet?
You can take the pet with you but hotels do have additional fees.
You may want to take your animal to a boarding residence but they can be costly per night, plus your animal will need to be current on their required shots.
Ask a friend or family member to house your animal at their home for free or a small fee. If they don’t want the pet in their home, they may want to come to your house and tend to the animal for a while and then go back home.
There are people who pet sit for a living but you need to be careful who you allow in your home when you are away and that might be a risky option to choose.
6. This animal could be aggressive.
If by chance, your animal bites someone and a claim or complaint is filed against you. This could raise your homeowners insurance and cause problems when you are seeking home insurance with another company.
7. Renting an apartment or home.
If you rent a home or apartment there will be additional fees or a deposit per pet and some landlords require additional pet rent per month.
I know there are other things to consider and I would love to hear your input and experiences.
Written by Beth Mincks, Consumer Credit Counseling Services.
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