Grandma Betty may be lonely now that Grandpa passed away but can her fixed income take the hit on pet expenses? Don't assume the answer is yes. Sure, your intentions are good and she'll love the company but give it a little thought.
The ASPCA says that the average cost of basic food, supplies, medical care and training for a dog or cat is $400 to $700 annually. Let's call that $50 per month. To me it sounds like very little, however to someone that can't afford their medication as it is, $50 is a ton.
Then there are the following figures presented by Healthbolt:
First-year costs of common pets:
- Small bird $195
- Small dog $810
- Fish $235
- Rabbit $911
- Guinea pig $645
- Medium dog $1,190
- Cat $715
- Large dog $1,580
Just something to consider before you wrap up a puppy for someone...
Figures: ASPCA and Healthbolt
