Whether you’re looking to adopt a dog or cat from a local rescue shelter like KSPCA or buying one from a breeder it’s important to make a list of pros and cons and really consider the decision.
Owning a pet offers many wonderful benefits such as security, a companion to come home to and a friend to play with. But it can come with significant financial responsibilities like food and litter expenses but there are some added costs you need to plan for.
Here are some costs that come along with pet ownership.
Boarding costs
Going out of town isn’t as easy with a pet unless you’re travelling with them. Unless you’re lucky enough to have a trusted reliable friend on hand, you’ll need to pay someone for the service. One of the common and convenient is pet boarding at a pet boarding school and vet clinics. If you’re a frequent traveler, it can be a big expense.
Grooming
While cats will often self- groom, pets such as dogs require regular grooming to keep their nails trimmed and help their fur stay healthy and shiny. Long hair dog breeds can be susceptible to hair matting, which can cause considerable pain and discomfort.
Vet Visits
Routine care such as vaccinations will mean at least one visit to the vet annually. Cats and dogs are also susceptible to fleas and worms which can cause serious health issues if untreated. If you get a puppy or kitten, there are other costs to factor in such as getting your pet spayed or neutered.
Toys and Engagement
All pets need stimulation to allow them to thrive. By providing toys, cat trees and anything else that will entertain them and keep them active you’re ensuring as their owner they are experiencing the world in a fun way. The costs add up and you may find yourself spending thousands of shillings over the course of a year.
Furniture/ home damage
Pets can be destructive. Cats and dogs sometimes break, chew, scratch and vomit on things. This could mean damage on couches, curtains, rugs and floors. You’ll need to handle these potential extra costs to repair your pet-damaged furniture by budgeting effectively, without putting too much of a dent in your wallet.
While owning a pet is a lot of work and expensive, it’s a relationship that is deeply rewarding.
