06/06/2026
Thinking about adding a furry friend to the family? 🐾
Before making the leap, please take a moment to consider the financial commitment that comes with pet ownership.
One of the most common reasons pets are surrendered is because their families simply cannot afford their care. While we all picture the cuddles, tail wags, and happy memories, it's important to remember that dogs come with ongoing expenses throughout their lives.
According to the American Kennel Club, the average annual cost of owning a dog is approximately $2,489, with start-up costs averaging around $2,127.
Some common expenses include:
Adoption fees: $50–$500 (or $800–$4,000+ from a breeder)
Food: Approximately $200–$720 per year, depending on the dog's size
Veterinary care: Annual exams, vaccinations, heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, and unexpected illnesses or injuries
Pet insurance: Averages around $62 per month
Emergency fund: Experts recommend setting aside $500–$1,000 for unexpected expenses
And remember—those are just averages. Emergency surgeries, broken bones, allergies, heartworm treatment, dental care, and chronic medical conditions can quickly increase costs.
We never want to see a beloved pet surrendered because a family wasn't prepared for the financial responsibility. Before bringing home a new companion, take an honest look at your budget and make sure you're ready to provide for their needs for the next 10–15 years or more.
The best homes aren't necessarily the biggest homes—they're the homes that are prepared to provide love, care, time, and financial stability for a pet throughout their entire life.
Ways to help cover expenses:
* Build a savings fund for veterinary emergencies.
No matter how careful we are, accidents and illnesses can happen. A broken leg, emergency surgery, unexpected illness, or even something as simple as an ear infection can quickly become expensive.
A 2024 survey found that 37% of pet owners have gone into debt because of pet-related expenses. Rather than relying on a high-interest credit card when an emergency arises, consider setting aside a small amount each month in a dedicated savings account for your pet.
Even $10, $20, or $50 a month can add up over time and help provide peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
*Save money by automating your pet supply deliveries!
Did you know that more than a third of pet owners spend $100 or more each month on food and treats alone?
Many retailers , like Chewy or Petsmart, offer discounts when you set up automatic deliveries for items you purchase regularly, such as food, treats, heartworm prevention, flea prevention, etc. Not only can this save you money, but it also helps ensure you never run out of the essentials your pet depends on.
🐾 Bonus benefits:
✔️ Recurring discounts
✔️ Fewer last-minute trips to the store, saves time and gas
✔️ Consistent delivery schedules
✔️ One less thing to remember each month
Every dollar saved on routine supplies is a dollar that can be put toward veterinary care, emergency savings, training, or simply spoiling your furry family member a little extra!
*Choose Adoption!
If you're thinking about adding a dog to your family, adoption can save you money while also saving a life.
Many shelters offer low-cost adoption fees that typically include vaccinations and spay/neuter services. Rescue adoption fees may vary, but they often include much more, such as:
✔️ Vaccinations
✔️ Spay or neuter surgery
✔️ Microchip
✔️ Heartworm testing
✔️ Deworming
✔️ Flea and heartworm prevention
An added bonus of adopting from a foster-based rescue? The dog has already been living with a family!
Unlike dogs in a shelter environment, foster dogs have had the opportunity to live in a real home. This allows us to learn about their personality, habits, and needs while helping them adjust to family life.
These services can add up to hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars if paid for separately.
In comparison, the purchase price from a breeder often includes only initial vaccinations and deworming. Important services such as spaying/neutering, microchipping, heartworm testing, and ongoing preventive care are usually additional expenses for the new owner.
Most importantly, when you choose adoption, you're giving a deserving dog a second chance at life.
More than 45% of US households have dogs as pets, which shows how beloved they are. But before you get a pet, it’s important to know the costs involved (which can add up to thousands per year) and budget wisely.
