Dog Adoption - Budget Worksheet

Costs will vary depending on where you live. Use the worksheet below to help you plan for the adoption of your new dog.

 

ONE-TIME COSTS

   - Adoption fee.

   - Leash and collar. These may need to be replaced in the future - and if you are adopting a puppy, that may occur sooner rather than later! Remember that puppies will chew and that collars may need to be replaced as they grow.

   - Food and water bowls.

   - Bedding. This can be one of many types of pet beds, or just a comfy towel or blanket that your new dog can call his own.

   - Puppy shots (if you're adopting a puppy). Puppies need a few sets of shots to help protect them until their immune systems are fully developed.

   - Spay/neuter surgery. This will prevent adding to the pet overpopulation problem (even if you are able to find homes for the litter, that means there are even fewer available homes for the pets waiting at animal shelters and rescue organizations). Some shelters and pet rescue organizations include the cost of spay/neuter surgery in their adoption fee. If you cannot afford the cost of surgery, ask your local vet or SPCA about spay/neuter programs you may qualify for.

   - Identification. This can include a city license tag, general ID tag, tattoo, and/or microchip. It's important for your pet to wear proper, up-to-date ID at all times, just in case he gets lost!

   - Grooming supplies - brush/comb, nail clippers, etc.

   - Kennel or crate. You can kennel-train a pup so that you don't have too much of a mess... plus the kennel or crate is convenient for times when you have to safely confine your pet, ie. travel, moving day, etc.

 

ON-GOING COSTS

   - Dog food (dry/moist). Factor in any additional costs if your dog requires prescription food.

   - Treats. Who can resist giving the occasional treat? Include items such as dog cookies, soft treats, "chewies", and so on.

   - Toys. Keep your pet occupied and happy with at least one or two great toys. Toys often get destroyed in play, so they need to be replaced.

   - Annual check-up and shots. A regular visit to the vet will help to ensure your pet remains healthy and that any problems are caught early.

   - Heartworm, flea, and/or tick medication. If you live in an area where these are a problem, your dog should be regularly treated. You will also need to budget for these medications if you and your dog intend to travel to an area where these are a problem.

   - Boarding or pet-sitting costs. Includes doggy daycare or overnight boarding if you don't intend to take your dog when you travel.

   - Grooming. Some dog breeds have higher grooming needs than others. Budget for these costs if you plan to use the services of a professional groomer.

   - Dog license fees. Check with your municipality to see what fees are applicable. Some cities will discount the fee if your dog is spayed or neutered.

 

ADDITIONAL COSTS

   - Puppy expenses. Puppies are adorable, but they come with the knowledge that puppies also love to chew! Set aside some money to repair or replace items that are destroyed by a happy pup.

   - Replacement of worn-out or broken items. This includes stuff like collars, leashes, bowls, toys, etc.

   - Unforeseen or emergency veterinary care. Pets can become ill, too ... and sometimes it may require only a check-up at your friendly neighbourhood vet's, at other times it can be serious and require hospitalization or specialized treatment. Some pet owners choose to purchase pet insurance for peace of mind. Include in your budget a thorough dental cleaning every few years or as recommended by your vet.