Making it rain Cats and Dogs: Estimating the Cost of Having a Pet.

Owning a dog is a delightful and rewarding experience, but it comes with its fair share of responsibilities and costs. In India, as more and more families embrace the joy of having a furry friend, it's essential to understand the financial commitments that come with canine companionship. From food and veterinary care to grooming and accessories, let's break down the various expenses associated with owning a dog in India.

Annual and initial expenses

Adoption / Purchase

The first choice is whether to buy a breed from a breeder or adopt from a shelter. While the cost of buying a purebred dog can range from a few thousand to several lakhs, adoption costs are often lower, to a maximum of few thousand rupees. Undoubtedly, this is avoided if you adopt a dog from the streets or a shelter; in addition to getting an incredible dog, your puppy will also have a loving home. That win-win is highly encouraged!

Getting your house ready 

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Due to their inborn curiosity, puppies should not be let in rooms or other open spaces where they may be harmed. Instead, you should install barriers like baby gates. Additionally, there are foods that you must keep your dogs away from. Thus, organise to store those items somewhere they cannot reach. If you want to prevent your inquisitive pet from chewing on exposed wires and getting shocked, you could coat them with neem oil or bitter apple spray.

Vaccination

You should budget between Rs. 4,000 and Rs. 5,000 for your puppy's first year of vaccinations against serious illnesses including parvovirus, rabies, and distemper. You'll need to give them booster shots every year after the first year, which will set you back about Rs. 2000.

Pet insurance

In the same way that we purchase health insurance for our loved ones and ourselves, pet insurance has developed into a fantastic means of supporting our dogs in the event that they require medical attention or other funding.

Annual costs for vaccinations, tick treatments, grooming, etc. can range from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 54,000. If your pet requires such treatment, the vet bills and the ensuing medical and surgical expenses are the most expensive of them. Your pets will receive the greatest medical care and legal support in the event of an emergency if they have pet insurance coverage. Depending on the insurer, you can buy pet insurance for pets aged between 2 months to 10 years.

Monthly expenses

Food

Your dog's health depends on a food that is both healthy and well-balanced. A few hundred to several thousand rupees might be spent on high-quality dog food each month, based on your dog's size, breed, and nutritional needs.

Deworming

Depending on your veterinarian's recommendations, dogs should get dewormings every few months to preserve their health. The dose is determined by the dog's weight. The type of treatment—shampoos, pills, spot treatments, or collars—determines the price.

Veterinary Care

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You should take your puppy for check ups once a month or so throughout the first year of its life to make sure all of its developmental milestones are being reached. Each veterinarian has a different consultation cost, but an average of Rs. 350 is a fair starting point. Certain breeds require more regular checkups due to their increased susceptibility to joint issues, eye problems, and certain malignancies. Senior dogs may also require veterinary care for age-related conditions including arthritis or problems with their heart, liver, or kidneys.

Grooming

Grooming needs vary among breeds, but regular grooming, including baths, nail trims, and haircuts. The cost of anal sacs and ear cleaning ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1500; nail clipping may cost anywhere from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000 each session; and getting your dog groomed in a salon can cost up to Rs. 2000. Dental care procedures might cost as much as Rs. 5000.

Accessories and supplies

The costs of dog accessories in India vary widely, allowing pet owners to choose items that align with their preferences and budget. It's important to strike a balance between functionality, quality, and aesthetics while considering the unique needs of your furry friend. 

These majorly include:

• Bedding and Toys,
• Leashes, Collars, and Harnesses,
• Bowls, Food Containers, and Treats