USA Today article: Pet adoption can cost a lot more than you might think

[musicdeb]

Jay Levine, a veterinarian who volunteers with law enforcement on animal cruelty investigations, says he's seen terrible cases of dog breeders mistreating dogs. He recommends consumers strongly consider shelters and rescue groups but says there are "thousands of very reputable breeders" who care about dogs' welfare.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi...tory/2012-09-04/adopting-a-pet-dog/57587724/1

 

[Smokeycat]

The daily/monthly/yearly costs are overlooked by way too many people who see the cute puppy only to discover it costs to feed them.

 

[Jadotha]

I think this is a good article as far as it goes -- particularly in outlining the expenditures a buyer should expect for care of a new pet in the first year and beyond. However, much of it is almost an advert for the AKC --suggesting that simply buying from an AKC registered breeder, seeing the AKC paperwork, viewing the breeder's housing situation, seeing the puppy's parents, and getting a health guarantee are sufficient to ensure that you get a healthy puppy with a good temperament that will meet the breed standard (or at least look like the breed it is supposed to be).

 

[musicdeb]

True, Jadotha. I posted the article because it has valid points for adopting a pet.

 

[babyjoemurphy]

Oh the costs of a dog when adopting is MASSIVE

In our first 3 weeks of having Murphy we had a vet visit for wellness (even though he had his last visit to vet in May), ear meds 2x's, dog food, leashes, licence, to the grand total of near $300.00. His annual vet bill that was given to us when we adopted him was $550.00. And that's a yearly visit, not to mention the in between visits.

I expected it to cost a bit but NEVER imagined that amount so quickly. Not that its an issue. I took in consideration the added cost from my previous dog due to size.

Nothing guarantees a perfect dog but there are steps to take to better your chances. I am a believer in adopting dogs as long as you have patience and know-how. Lets face it they are not needing new homes because they had a wonderful life previously.