How much would you be comfortable spending annually on a dog? We often ask this question on a
rescue application. What’s the right answer? “The limit does not exist” is ideal, but we know that’s
not the reality for everyone. While it doesn’t take a millionaire to care for a dog, it does require a
large financial commitment. Here is an outline of the standard annual costs for caring for a dog.
Flea & tick prevention: $300
- Heartworm prevention: $100
- Vaccines (Rabies/Distemper, Bordetella, Leptospirosis, Lyme): $250
- Fecal screening: $70
- Annual check-up: $100
- Food: $1000
- Grooming: $500
- Toys/enrichment: $100
- “Oops I ate something” vet visit: $300
Total: $2,720
…And those are just the expected costs. This doesn’t include procedures that are needed earlier in
life if they’re not covered by a rescue such as spay/neuter, and procedures needed later in life such
as dentals. Going out of town and don’t have a friend to watch your fur baby? Tack on a couple
hundred dollars for each trip towards boarding.
All of this can be overwhelming, but they deserve it and so much more, and the love you get back
will be FAR more valuable than money. And hey, at least pup cups are free!
