the war of the budget

The purchase price of an animal might sometimes seem arbitrary. Actually, the price is based on the size and rarity of an animal and on what people are willing to pay. But no matter what the initial cost of the pet, that is just the beginning. You will have to spend some money for food, shelter, vet, and toys. Like the original purchase price, these additional costs vary considerably from one species to another. Here are some things to keep in mind.

For pets in general

Some people prefer rare animals because they are so unusual. If you are thinking of buying an especially rare breed of cat or dog, be prepared to pay top dollar. The price might be three or four times what a more common breed would cost. You have to expect to pay more if your animal has to be imported.

If cost is important to you, think twice before buying a purebred animal from a breeder. A rare breed of cat can cost close to US$1000. It is true that a breeder will be able to tell you who the animal's parents were as well as his medical history, and you will receive a certification of his bloodline. The question is whether you consider those advantages worth the additional expense.

Do not assume that you will have a new pet at absolutely no cost, even if you are adopting from an animal shelter. Every shelter requests at least a nominal fee - from US$5 to US$200 - when you adopt a pet. They request it to help cover their veterinary bills and the cost of caring for animals while they try to find good homes for the animals.

For cats only

Check your pocketbook before falling for that pretty longhaired kitten. Bying from a breeder could set you back hundreds of dollars if you want a purebred such as a Persian or an Himalayan. Moreover, plan to spend about US$100 for spaying or neutering and another hundred for the first set of vaccinations.

If you are looking for a companion rather than a certain breed of cat, you can save a lot of money by visiting your local shelter. Some shelters charge US$40 for a cat, and that price includes the animal' s first set of vaccinations as well as worming and spaying or neutering.

For dogs only

Be sure to check your pocketbook before adopting a new puppy. You may except to pay about US$50 to US$100 to adopt even the smallest mutt from the local shelter. The price will include the spaying or the neutering procedure and the first set of vaccinations, plus worming, testing for heartworms, and usually some temperament testing.

If you want to adopt from a breeder, expect to pay at least US$200 into thousands for rarer breeds. And that is just the price of the dog. You will still need to spay or neuter the dog and pay for his first shots.

In this chapter

Introduction Adopting a pet House Matters of time Type of pets

Other considerations Sources for pets Evaluating a seller Evaluating a pet

Best season to adopt Finalizing the adoption

Following chapters

Finally at home Health & Care Behaviour Living together

Back to the menu

To receive our newsletters