I've always liked the idea of adopting pets, but was too busy before to take care of them. I had said to myself that, some day, when I retire, perhaps I would finally adopt some. Well, that day is finally here, but I am still dragging my feet.
The usual concerns would come up. As a pet novice, would I find the learning curve a bit too much? Would I find the cost of raising pets too much as well? I am also concerned about pets that might be too sad or something being around me? I don't know.
It wasn't until recently, when would-be burglars nearly broke into my house that I started to give this topic a serious look. Specifically, I am thinking maybe adopting dogs to help guard the house, even though I am also a big fan of cats.
If I do this, I would really, really like two dogs (or cats) at the same time, ideally from the same litter, if only because I'd like them to be able to socialize well and play with each other, and not just rely on me.
Of course, I am also very worried about the cost. I read online that the cost of taking care of pets are at least $1k per pet, per year, and I am sure that cost is only going to increase as time goes by.
Anyway, does anyone have pets, or have thoughts they want to chime in on this?
April 14th, 2025 at 04:52 pm 1744649526
Perhaps starting with an older dog to see if you like the routine of walking, playing, feeding that is required?
Pets are definitely an expense, and I think you need to really think about how much you would be willing to spend on vet bills if the pet had an issue. Plus the time and money commitment to routine care and repairing any damage the pet might do to your home.
April 14th, 2025 at 10:37 pm 1744670248
The cost of $1K per year per pet is probably spot on, depending on prices where you live. We probably spend more than that with two big dogs. The recent yearly vet bill for all the yearly shots and check up and blood test was over $400 and the pup is healthy. Since we have "doodles" we have to have them groomed frequently and that's expensive too.
April 15th, 2025 at 12:18 am 1744676301
April 15th, 2025 at 04:10 am 1744690240
April 16th, 2025 at 11:01 pm 1744844496
April 17th, 2025 at 10:46 am 1744886819
April 19th, 2025 at 07:44 pm 1745091875
The cost can be really variable. We lucked out with a couple of cats that never needed anything except basic dry food, litter, and occasional checkups. For about 10 years we barely spent any money on them Now one of them has cancer as well as a thyroid condition and our costs have gone up considerably. He's on four medications, had to have bloodwork and other exams done, is incontinent so we have to buy puppy pads, is pickier about food so we get wet food, etc. So you may want to look into pet insurance or be prepared to put in extra if your pet has health problems.
April 19th, 2025 at 08:28 pm 1745094508
They certainly won't be depressed being around you. In fact, they will cheer you up. A loving home with you is most definitely better than being stuck in a stressful, noisy animal shelter. There are so many loving animals in need.