Are rescue dogs expensive? Here’s What to Do Next

Additional Dog Adoption Costs

Other medical issues are more common than you may think. When a shelter brings in a stray dog or an owner surrender, they often have unknown health problems that quickly add to the cost of caring for the dog.

Medical Service Cost
Dental Care $25 to $500
Heartworm treatment $500 to $1,500
Parvo treatment $500 to $2,000
Lyme disease treatment $500 to $1,000
Coccidia $200 to $400
Roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms $50 to $200
Xrays $150 to $250

The cost to treat a dog with heartworm, worms, cancer, parvo, dental disease, Lyme disease, or any other numerous conditions will increase cost by thousands of dollars.

Most shelters are not out to scam you for your money. But there are some rescues that do not make sure dogs are healthy before adoption, which is why finding a reputable rescue is so important.

Average Cost of Dog Adoption Expenses

The main adoption fee isn’t all that dog adoption entails. Other expenses come with adopting a dog aside from the adoption fees. Therefore, before you adopt a dog, you should determine the expenses covered by the adoption fees and what isn’t covered.

For example, many public shelters don’t spray dogs in their care because they might end up euthanizing them at the end of the day. Some expenses are one-time, while others are ongoing and continuous. The ongoing costs include food costs, routine veterinary care, etc.

You shouldn’t assume that the shelter has sprayed the dog you plan to adopt. And this depends on the shelter you are adopting from. The cost of neutering usually ranges from about 35 dollars to 400 dollars. This falls under the category of one-time expenses for dog adoption.

Food cost is one of the most significant costs to consider before adopting a dog. Dogs are naturally known to consume a lot of food, so be ready for food costs if you are going to adopt a dog. The annual cost of feeding a small or large breed dog usually ranges from about 200 dollars to 400 dollars.

The amount you will spend on food largely depends on the size of the dog you adopt. The bigger the dog, the more you will spend on food. In fact, the quality of the food you are feeding your dog must be great. So if you know you have a low budget, you should choose a small-sized breed.

Poor nutrition might make you spend more money in the long run, especially on veterinary care, because your dog’s health will definitely be affected. The lifespan of your dog is also at risk. A dog that isn’t well fed stands a high risk of dying early. Best Dry Food

  • The kibble is crunchy and designed to support the special health needs of larger dogs
  • No meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives
  • More affordable than some prescription foods
  • Contains glucosamine for joint and bone health
  • Routine veterinary care cost usually ranges from about 200 dollars to 500 dollars, depending on your dog’s medical condition. Regular vet care usually covers vaccinations, tick and flea prevention, heartworm prevention as well as routine examinations.

    It is vital that you cultivate the habit of taking your dog to the vet at regular intervals to reduce the possibility of emergencies which will make you spend more than usual. You get to save money in the long run when you ensure regular visits. The Top Flea and Tick Prevention Collar For Dogs

    One of our top picks of flea and tick prevention based on convenience, affordability, and long-term usage. Simply place the collar on your dogs neck and they are set to romp and play!

    Buying toys for your newly adopted dog is optional. But it would be great if you could get toys for your puppy to keep it busy. Aside from keeping your puppy busy, it also helps exercise and stimulates the dog’s mental health.

    The amount spent on toys varies and depends mainly on what you want. But your budget for toys can lie in the range of $25- $50 annually. Toys can also save your furniture from being chewed if you have a destructive dog. It can chew the toys instead of your furniture. Best Cuddling Toy

  • This unique plush toy opens up and extends to over two feet long
  • Designed with K9 Tuff Guard Technology
  • Features two squeakers inside
  • Doesn’t have any stuffing
  • Dogs that have spent time in the shelter might find crates more conducive. The cost of using crates to train your dog ranges from about $35-$125. If you intend to use beds instead, it will cost you about $50-$200 annually.

    The price of the beds usually depends on the size and quality. But it’s advisable to go for good quality and long-lasting beds to save cost in the long run. Best Soft Dog Crate

    •Collapsible, good for indoors or outdoors

    Unforeseen and unpredictable circumstances that can lead to emergencies can show up. So as a good pet owner, it’s advisable to always prepare for emergencies. Chronic illnesses, disasters, and other emergencies can cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars annually.

    Emergency hospital visits can cost about 500 dollars to 2000 dollars, depending on the nature of the emergency. Therefore it’s best to always prepare for emergencies by saving extra money.

    But above all, make sure the emergency cause is not something that could have been prevented. Always carry out the routine care your dog needs to reduce the chance of emergencies.

    What is the average adoption fee for a dog?

    Dog adoption costs can range from $50 to $500. The average dog adoption fee is $300. This usually covers the dog being up to date with vaccinations and spay/neutering.

    The cost of vaccinations and spay/neuter for you to go take the dog to a vet would be more than $300. In essence, you are getting a bargain when adopting through the shelter.

    UNGRATEFUL Boy Doesn’t Want USED DOG, What Happens Is Shocking

    Adoption fees are donations to help support the care of animals in shelters or rescue groups. If you were to pay a similar fee for an animal through a breeder or pet store, not only would you not be helping a pet in need, you’d be paying for intentional breeding that has led to an overpopulation of pets.