"Many people like the idea of a pet or can't resist a cute puppy
or kitten, but don't think about the changes it will make in their
life. Pets are companions. They live with us and depend on us for
all of their needs. This is a great responsibility and one that
should not be taken lightly. The kind of relationship you build
with your pet is dependent on the commitment you are willing to
make."
"If you are planning to move, going to school or are not home
frequently, this may not be a good time. Pets need stability and
routine to feel secure. Consider your future plans and evaluate if
a pet will fit in with those plans. Getting a pet should never be a
spur of the moment decision. Their life is dependent on you."
"All members of the household should be in agreement of the pet you
choose. Also if you are renting make sure it is ok with your
landlord. Do you have enough space for the pet you are considering?
Most animals don't need a lot of room but some will require more
than others. Surprisingly some breeds of large dogs don't need as
much space as people think while many medium breeds need lots of
space. It is the outdoor exercise and play area that are important.
If you are in a house you need to have a fenced yard if you get a
dog. *Please note that in many of our shelters renters are required
to bring in copies of their strata council by-laws in order to be
approved for adopting."
"Spaying and neutering are very important especially for cats, dogs
and rabbits. Not only will it control the pet overpopulation it
helps prevent illness and behaviour problems."
Cleaning up after your pet is necessary whether it be scooping poop
in the park or cleaning a litter box, cage or aquarium. It is
important for the health of you and the animals and the respect of
your neighbours."
"Grooming is also a part of having most pets. Clipping nails of
dogs, cats and rabbits is a necessary part of the regular
maintenance. Brushing animals with long hair is necessary to
prevent tangles. Brushing your dog's teeth will prevent dental
problems and improve his/her breath."
"Different animals will require different amounts of your time .
The amount of activity you do, the amount of time you are home,
what to do when you go away are all factors to consider when
choosing a pet. You need to provide a minimum of an hour a day of
active play and walks for your dog or cat."
"The cost of pet care varies but expect the average dog to cost
about $1000 per year and a cat about $800. This doesn't include the
initial one-time costs that include the adoption cost and basics
such as leashes, toys and collars. All pets require an annual visit
to the veterinarian. There will also be visits due to illness or
accidents and preventative care (fleas, heartworm). Check out our
estimates and see if this fits into your budget. Don't forget that
unsupervised puppies and even adult dogs will inadvertently destroy
items such as shoes, TV remote controls, books, couches and other
people items. These aren't figured into our totals but we don't
know anyone who hasn't had an unexpected replacement expense of
some item."
DOGS:
To keep a medium sized, mixed breed, spayed female dog the yearly
cost will be approximately the following:
Food 12 bags dog food (18kg) @ $45 540.00
Biscuit treats 2 boxes per month @ $3.99 96.00
Veterinary Care Yearly Visit - exam and vaccinations 71.00
Nail clipping 6 trips to the vet @ $15.00 90.00
License fee 24.00
Grooming Spring bath and brush out 40.00
Vacation 2 weeks dog care @ $15/day 210.00
Total
*please note that is not the Adoption cost at an SPCA shelter, this
is an approximate yearly cost of keeping the animal $1071.00
One Time Costs:
Adoption fee (approx. only, check with your local shelter) at the
SPCA $145.00
Spaying (female) and tattoo
at the SPCA 50.00
Food and water dishes 15.00
Collar and leash 25.00
Brush and comb 15.00
Toys - balls, Frisbees, etc. 25.00
Crate 65.00
Total $340.00
The above does not include emergency medical care, initial
vaccinations, obedience classes, the cost of fencing, or bed.
These costs are in US dollars.
