How Much Does it Cost to Own a Pet Each Year?
One of the recent discussions in my house lately has been from my kids. You see, they want a dog … or a bird… or a fish even though we have 2 cats already. They are getting old and the time where they may not be with us any longer is something we have to discuss seriously.
I don’t know if we will be ready for another pet right away and certainly I don’t think we’re ready for one now — with 3 kids and 2 cats! I will admit though I do debate in my head about adding another pet to our house.
Not only is the decision to add a pet a ‘space’ thing, but pets cost money! Not just the initial adoption costs, but the first year is expensive and then year after year you have to think about food, vet bills, toys, and in certain areas — the licensing fees to have a pet. It’s important to look at all the incidentals because the truth is, pets can be expensive! The ASPCA breaks down all the costs that you can expect when it comes to pet ownership so you’re not in the dark when making the decision to get a pet for the family — but also say. “you shouldn’t expect to pay less than this, and you should definitely be prepared to pay more”.
Click through to find out the breakdown of how much a dog, cat, guinea pig and fish cost per year on average:
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A Fish
The initial cost of owning a fish you need to factor in the cost of aquariums and will cot around $200. The annual cost of a fish is only estimated aroun $35 per year for food and incidentals. Not bad.Photo credit: iStockPhoto
For some simple money saving tips — visit Yahoo Money Talks News
Photo credit: iStockPhoto
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Dear Whomever ,
Hi my name is Michelinda . Thanks for the information . My son wants a dog . But we live in an apartment . But I told him when we get in a house , I’ll get him one . I didnt know it would cost that much . We have a cat name Garfield Now . He’s a boy cat .
Thanks Michelinda
I realize there is a cost for having pets, but all that aside, I feel the main reason we have pets is because we love animals, and just want a touch of what its like to hold and care for one of the makers creatures. Love is so unconditional with animals. Maybe we can learn that lesson too.