Understanding the Costs of Pet Adoption and Care

There are plenty of reasons to adopt a pet: from companionship, to getting a new exercise buddy, to evidence showing a possible link between pets and stronger cardiovascular health. At the same time—pets come with a cost. Read on for a closer look at the finances of adopting a pet.

Initial Costs of Pet Adoption

Up-front adoption costs for your new pet will likely include an adoption fee charged by the shelter or rescue organization. This adoption fee usually covers all your initial pet costs: including sterilization surgery, vaccinations, microchipping and parasite control.

While some pet rescue fees may be as low as $50, it’s more typical to pay around $300-500, depending on the shelter, the dog or cat, and what’s included in the adoption fee. In comparison, an animal purchased from a pet store or breeder may cost around $1,000 or higher, with sterilization and vaccination fees on top of that.

If the cost of an adoption fee is a concern, get in touch with your local shelter to see what’s included and ask about options.  

Settling In

To help your new pet feel comfortable as soon as possible, you’ll want to have a few supplies ready to welcome them home. A dog will need a crate or bed (you can ask the shelter which they recommend), collar, leash, food and water bowls, and some bags for dealing with your new pal’s “business.” For a cat, you’ll be looking to get a litter box, food and water bowls, a collar, and a scratching post.

Plan to spend around $50 on items to settle in your pet, although you might end up spending less. Second hand stores and online sellers often have pet supplies, so shop around if you’re on a budget. Keep in mind that you’re still getting to know your pet’s personality. Beware purchasing a fancy cat bed, only to discover that Mr. Sprinkles prefers to sleep in yours.

On the other hand, if you feel like spending big on the newest member of the household, you can always donate any unneeded items later on.

Ongoing Pet Expenses

The recurring costs of owning a pet will likely include food, toys, grooming tools and routine veterinary care. Dog food runs around $50 per month, although your choice of food (and the size of your dog) can push that figure in either direction. Cat food averages a bit less, but may run higher if you choose wet food, which many cat owners do.

Just like humans, pets should see their doc once a year for an annual checkup. Expect to pay around $100 for a checkup, with additional fees if your pet needs lab work or other diagnostic tests. Puppies and kitties, or elderly pets, may need a twice-yearly vet visit.

In terms grooming, it all depends on your dog or cat! Dog breeds with long, thick coats may do best with a professional grooming every month or two, plus plenty of brushings in between. Expect to pay around $40-100 for the full grooming. Short haired dog owners may go to the groomers less, but that usually means investing in good pair of nail scissors and other home grooming tools. Cat groomers typically charge around $30-70, and can assist with comb-outs, de-shedding, nail trimming and more.

Then, there’s the question of toys. Once you hang out with your animal a bit, you’ll get a sense as to what they’re into. One piece of advice when it comes to chew toys? Check reviews, and don’t spend big unless you’re sure it’s durable.

Unexpected Costs & Pet Insurance

Boarding and medical care are the most frequent unexpected costs for pets. If you need to leave town without much notice, you may need to board your pet, which can be around $50 per day or more, depending on the length of the stay. Vet emergencies—for a swallowed item, an accident, an illness and so on—can cost around $250 for an appointment and $2,000-5,000 if emergency surgery is needed.

To help alleviate the financial impact of an emergency, it’s a good idea to budget out part of your emergency savings for pet-related needs. Another option is pet insurance. Pet insurance usually costs around $60 per month for a dog and $30 per month for a cat, although you may find less expensive options depending on your insurance provider. The good news is that many pet policies offer unlimited coverage—so no matter how high the emergency bills go, you’re covered.