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Love Is Free, But Pets Come With Costs

Tribune photo by JIM REED

Consider expected and unexpected costs your pet may incur. The ASPCA provides guidelines for anticipating the cost of pet ownership.

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By KRISTEN LEVINE

Tribune correspondent

Published: September 10, 2008

You can't put a price on unconditional love, but with emotional commitment comes financial commitment.

When you fall in love with a pair of longing eyes, you don't think about the cost of cages, leashes, collars, annual veterinary visits, grooming, feeding and training. And then there's the damage to carpeting, furniture and shoes!

People who have always had pets take these expenses in stride, but those who have only had low-maintenance animals and first-time pet owners may get sticker shock.

Family pets have become the latest casualties of the economic decline affecting Americans. With so many people losing their homes to foreclosure, family pets are being surrendered at alarming rates - 20 percent more this year, according to a recent US News & World Report.

Now more than ever, it's important to consider both expected and unexpected costs your pet may incur.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provides these guidelines for anticipating the cost of pet ownership. The figures are based on standard costs including feeding, medical care, supplies, toys, crates or cages, collars and leashes, grooming and other miscellaneous expenses.

Small Dogs: Little dogs cost less for feed and crates but expect to spend $1,314 a year for a 5- to 20-pound dog.

Medium Dogs: Stepping up canine size to 20 to 45 pounds increases spending to $1,580.

Large Dogs: Dogs weighing 45 or more pounds cost $1,843 annually. Cats: Kitty costs are slightly less than canines. The typical cat owner will spend $1,035 each year.

Guinea Pigs: Believe it or not, these little fur balls will go through more litter in one year than their feline friends. Expect to spend about $705.

Rabbits: Surprise! A bunny buddy can cost more than a cat or a Guinea pig, approximately $1,055 the first year.

Pocket Pets (gerbils, hamsters, mice): While these pint-sized critters don't require spaying or neutering, their daily needs add up to $340 annually.

Small Birds: Smaller feathered friends can be among the cheapest of pets to keep. Expect to spend $270 the first year.

Fish: While they come with entirely different needs, fish can also be affordable friends for just $235 each year.

The first year's costs for any pet will be a bit higher because of one-time expenses, such as crates and spaying or neutering. However, save your pennies because as your pet enters its senior years, medical costs will likely rise.

Can't Buy Me Love

Designer collars, fancy footwear and gourmet pet treats may be enticing, but does your pet really need them?

The majority of growth in today's pet industry is a result of buying non-essentials. But they shouldn't come at the cost of basic veterinary care and good food. What's best for your pet and your budget? Spend more time than money. Be sure to play each day, practice training or simply walk your pet. Giving them time and attention meets every companion animal's needs - and it doesn't cost a dime.

Write to pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; e-mail kristen @fetchingcommunications.com.

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