Fur babies are valued members of our families, so it is important to financially prepare for them like you would any other member. Here are some categories to be sure to include in your budget for your pet this upcoming year.
Annual Expenses
At a minimum, it is recommended to take your pet for an annual health check with your veterinarian. Make sure to budget for the doctor exam, vaccines, lab testing, and yearly prescriptions for each pet, such as heartworm prevention and flea and tick prevention. If your vet offers a refill of these with your pet’s annual exam compare costs to online pharmacies like Chewy. In addition to the annual exam, bloodwork and dental care are common among chronically ill or senior pets. Call your vet’s office to see if they can provide a list of prices before the procedure.
The unexpected can happen. No one wants to plan for these emergencies, but it is important to be prepared. Medical bills can stack up quickly – having an emergency savings fund will prevent you from having to go into debt to protect your pet. Rather than using CareCredit, consider additional protection with pet insurance, as it provides coverage for accidents, injuries, or illnesses. Speak with a Michigan First Insurance Agency Representative today.
Food Expenses
Similar to how you budget for your personal groceries, it is important to include your pet’s food in your budget. This could be as simple as noting the cost per bag of food and how often it needs to be purchased. If you find yourself buying small bags frequently, it might be more cost-effective to buy a larger bag that will last longer.
There are times when a special diet may be prescribed by your vet if medically necessary. It’s important to understand that the cost for specialized diets is typically higher, but you can ask your veterinarian what brands they recommend and do a price comparison with in-store pricing and online vendors, like Amazon Pet Supplies.
Daycare, Grooming & Training
Your pet’s energy level may require daycare or boarding while you are away from home. In addition, some pets may require a regular grooming appointment. Daycare and grooming are considered maintenance and have associated costs that can be researched by calling daycare and grooming locations near you. If you are going on a trip for an extended period, ask if a friend or family member could help watch your pet – this could help you save a lot of money compared to traditional pet boarding.
Some owners find it beneficial to have their pet work with a trainer. Depending on the amount of training your pet needs you will want to add that expense to your budget.
Owning a pet can be rewarding, and budgeting for them ensures they will receive the care they need to stay happy and healthy. This financial commitment will provide your pet with the love and care in its new home.