The True Cost of Owning a Dog or Cat

by Jeff on August 15, 2011

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There are a ton of benefits to owning a dog or cat, but there are also many unexpected costs associated with owning dogs or cats as well. These all need to be thought of if you are going to take excellent care of your pet.

The first thing to consider if the veterinary costs. You will need to get shots for your pet, along with deworming treatment. Another essential cost will be to have your pet spayed or neutered. There will also be veterinary costs for unexpected illnesses. Some owners will opt to get pet insurance to help with the veterinary costs. While you are at the vets office you will also be able to put a locator chip in your dog, so they will be easy to find if they wander off. This does not hurt your pet as the chip is about the size of a grain of rice. Licensing fees are also mandatory.

Another cost connected with your pet is a collar and a leash so they can go on a walk with you. Many areas require your pet to be on a leash. You will also need to choose a pet food brand that they enjoy eating. They also like to have treats on occasion. Once you have them home, you may have to send them to obedience training. You may also need to invest in training pads until your pet is house broken. To keep your pet occupied and active you can pick up some toys. Chew toys would be a good option, to keep them from chewing on items around your house. Pets have even been known to chew electrical cords which could be dangerous. For your dog you may want to crate train them and your cat will need a litter box and litter.

There are other costs associated that people often don’t think of. The carpet in your house will have to be cleaned more often. You may also have to get your upholstery cleaned or buy covers for your chairs and sofas. As much as you try, your pets are like children, they will have accidents. You may also have to replace chewed items like shoes and clothes. It can become expensive to own a dog and/or cat. However, they will bring a lot of joy into your life.

Photo Credit: jpctalbot

Which Dogs Are Good With Kids?

by Jeff on August 15, 2011

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If you have kids, or even if you have kids that visit your house often, you should consider which breeds are better with children before you get your first dog. Some breeds are great dogs, but just don’t work well with kids either because they’re too aggressive or have too much energy.

You should do your own research to be sure you get a dog that matches your own situation, but generally here are some dogs that are generally better with kids. (Disclaimer: no two dogs are alike, always exercise extreme caution with dogs and children at all times)

Bulldogs: These dogs are low in energy, small in size, friendly and very loyal for children to play with. They love to run around with the little ones and make a wonderful pal.

German Shepherd: This type of dog is typically large in size, highly intelligent, very obedient, protective of their family, very alert and barks when provoked. The German Shepherd loves to play catch and run around the yard with the little ones. Don’t let their size fool you, these dogs are very gentle with children.

Minature Schnauzer: These little guys are small in size, very high in energy, smart, affectionate and very playful and like attention from children.

Vizsla: This type of dog is very gentle, affectionate, loyal, bigger in size, very caring, quiet and love to run the yards with the kids.

Pembrooke Welsh Corgi: These dogs are typically very active and love to run the yard. They have a short sturdy body and are protective of the family. They act as a watchdog and only usually bark when provoked.

Poodle: These dogs are very elegant, happy, friendly, very good natured, have a great temperament and love to play with children.

Labrador Retriever: This dog is my favorite because they are awesome with children. Very loving, loyal, protective, friendly, patient, and good natured. They love to hit the beach to cool off and will swim with the little ones. The Labrador Retriever loves to interact with kids, loves all the special treatment that he gets and will provide constant love to the family.

When selecting a dog for your family you may want to look at a couple of very important things first. The breed of the dog and the temperament of the dog is most important. You will want to choose a dog that will be able to interact with your children but at the same time be gentle with them as well! If you are ever in question you can always contact a veterinarian or some type of animal professional such as a dog trainer. They can guide you and give you the proper direction on selecting the perfect companion for you and your family.

Photo Credit: Leszek.Leszczynski

Benefits of Owning A Dog Or Cat

August 14, 2011
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There are many personal benefits to owning a dog or a cat. Having a dog will help to encourage you to get out and exercise. Dogs need to take walks, therefore you as the owner, will have a reason to get out and be more active as well. Having a dog and having to walk [...]

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Welcoming Home Your First Cat

August 13, 2011
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The best thing to remember when welcoming your first cat home is this: don’t over-think it. You must be sensible and responsible, certainly, but cats aren’t the same as having a baby, and furthermore, they’re not even the same as having a dog. They require less maintenance, generally, and so if you stick to basic, [...]

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