The Silent & Hidden Costs of Pet Ownership

If you’re a new pet parent or thinking about bringing a pet home, congratulations! Being a pet parent is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have. The sort of love and companionship a pet provides is second to none, and you’re sure to have a wonderful time together. 

Whether you choose to buy a breed of choice or adopt from your local shelter, there are a few things to consider before, during, and after you bring home a pet. From basic expenses like medical care and pet registration to everyday items like food and toys, the emotional excitement of bringing a pet home can often lead to one forgetting the financial aspect of pet ownership. 

Here Are Some Hidden Costs of Pet Ownership to Be Aware Of

Bringing Your Pet Home 

The day you bring your pet home is full of excitement, but it can also be one with unexpected costs. For example, if you’re buying a dog from a breeder and you don’t live nearby, you will have to arrange for a pet-friendly travel option for your new pet. There is also the question of adoption fees, which vary from breeder to breeder. 

If your breeder is based far away from you, you may have to fly your new pet back to you. To do this, you will need a pet-friendly, IATA-approved pet crate for air travel. You will also need to make a booking with a pet-friendly airline and bear the cost of a ticket. 

Some breeders may ship puppies, but this will come with its own costs and considerations. Make sure to consider your location, the distance to your breeder, and whether you will need to pay extra for pet-friendly transportation to ship your new pet to you. 

Veterinary Care and Testing 

As a rule, you should always confirm the medical care that has been provided to your pet in their infancy. Medical care during infancy usually includes a round of two vaccinations and internal/external parasite treatments; always confirm what (if any) treatments have been provided to your young animal. 

You should have a clear idea of what treatments your pet has been given, so check if the treatments administered can be backed up by a veterinary health certificate. Such a document can help you better understand if your pet needs any additional or primary medical care. 

Veterinary services and caring for your pet will be a monthly expense; routine care and treatments like heartworm, tick, and flew prevention can cost several thousand rupees a month (depending on your pet and where you live). While it may seem like an added cost, routine vaccinations and immunizations are necessary for your pet’s health in the long run. 

Toys & Accessories 

Once they’re home, your pet will need a few key items (like a bed) to get comfortable. Choosing the perfect bed for your pet is like choosing a comfortable bed for yourself, wherein you consider factors like your pet’s age, size, and health to make the best choice for your pet’s comfort. 

There are pet-specific items to consider too. For dogs, a leash, collar, and some toys will be necessary to keep them comfortable indoors and outside. For cats, toys and a scratching post will help them settle into their new environment. 

Grooming Requirements 

Keeping your pet clean and well-groomed is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. A clean and healthy dog is not only happier but also less likely to carry harmful parasites or bacteria into your home and surroundings. 

A good brush is a must-have for every dog owner. The type of brush you need depends on your pet and coat type. For quick cleanups, grooming wipes are a lifesaver. If you have a dog, regular flea and tick treatments are essential to protect your dog and keep your home parasite-free. 

You will also need a nail clipper, a pet toothbrush and toothpaste, and a pet shampoo. Make sure to research the products available to you and only choose a pet-safe product for your pet’s grooming and maintenance requirements. 

Exercise & Pet Sitters 

If you have an urban lifestyle, it can be difficult to meet the exercise requirements of your pet. This is not much of an issue with a cat; if you have a dog though, you may need to dedicate some time daily to meet their exercise and stimulation needs. 

While some popular breeds like pugs require 15 minutes or so of exercise daily, other popular breeds like golden retrievers need 1-2 hours of daily exercise. In such cases, you may need to hire a dog walker or a pet sitter. Costs for such a service vary from location to location, though it may be worth it if your pet is stressed out and exhibiting destructive behaviour due to lack of exercise and stimulation. 

Breed-Specific Health Considerations 

Certain animals and breeds are more susceptible to health issues. These issues can be an inherent issue which the breed is known for, or issues that come with aging. For example, pugs and other brachycephalic (flat-faced/snub-nosed) dogs are prone to health issues. Large and giant dog breeds suffer from hip and joint issues as they age. 

In such cases, Veterinary bills, medications, and surgical procedures can quickly add up, leaving many unprepared for the costs. Pet insurance can help with this; much like insurance for people, pet insurance is a way to transfer financial risk in exchange for a premium. By paying a certain amount to an insurance company, they agree to cover a portion of your expenses if an issue arises. If you're concerned about your pet’s future health or the cost of care, pet insurance is a smart choice.

Owning a pet is a wonderful experience, filled with love and happiness. It is also a big responsibility, since pets require maintenance, care, and time to truly thrive. If you’re getting a house pet like a dog or cat, make sure you consider every aspect. 

The financial aspects are important, yes, but it is just as important to consider the physical and emotional needs of the pet you’re looking to bring home. Provided you know what you’re getting into, you should have a wonderful time with your new best friend.