2023 Animal Stories Magazine

Page 22 2023 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 22. 2023 annual total cost for dogs is between $800- 1500. The variability is based on more food for bigger dogs, but also higher grooming costs for some dogs, and higher veterinary care for some dogs as well. Cats are somewhere around $600-800 yearly. These costs need to be kept in mind for the duration of this pet’s life. These costs will only increase with age. As far as veterinary care, most offices recommend either getting pet insurance or having a cash reserve for those expenses, especially those unplanned major medical items. For some of those routine yearly expenses many veterinary offices are offering a Wellness subscription where you can pay for those routine annual veterinary expenses monthly to avoid 1-2 larger bills yearly. Often these plans have a cost savings as well. Now that you have thought all these thoughts through, we need to talk about what to do to plan for your new family member. Obviously, the first step is getting bowls, litter box for a cat or kitten, etc. Just as important as those things is their food. Most veterinarians recommend premium quality food e.g., Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canine, Purina Pro Plan. These foods have the most research behind them and are balanced for the life stage of your pet. Yes, they may cost more, but over time we have seen this extra cost pay off. Usually, these diets require less food to be fed and are therefore not that much more. Some older adoptees may require a special diet, but the shelter usually can tell you about that. Before you get home, you will also want to pet proof your home or apartment. Remove any plants that may be toxic, get baby gates if Continued --