Budgeting for and the Benefits of Pet Adoption

With Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 25th and National Pet Adoption Weekend July 24th-25th, it's tempting to bring home several furry new friends. How can you resist those charming puppy dog eyes or the little tiny squeaks from a playful kitten?

Since that is nearly impossible, here are a few suggestions for finding your pet soul mate:

This pet quiz is a great place to start with specific questions about your availability, training patience and budget (click on the turtle to begin). With many shelters at capacity, planning ahead can prevent larger expenses or worse, the pet returning into the adoption cycle.

How much is that dog or kitty going to cost?

Pampering your perfect pet breakdown:

• One time: Bedding, food, bowls, leash, collar, tags, grooming tools, kennel or pet carriers
• Monthly: Food, treats, medication
• Annual: Shots, exams, medication, licensing, pet sitters
• Misc expenses: Replacement of destroyed furnishings or decor, carpet cleaning. Unforeseen emergency animal hospital visits.

While most adoption fees range from $100-$250, everything from breed, age and health factors into ongoing costs. It is not uncommon for pets to pick up a slight respiratory infection or other ailments while at a shelter or rescue. Set up an appointment to have a thorough check-up, especially if their health history is unknown.

Aside from all the benefits of adoption, it is a difficult task to measure what you are willing to spend on your new pal. Having a budget will not only benefit you but also your new companion too. And that is priceless.

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