This Is How Much It REALLY Costs to Own a Dog

Is there a doc in the house?

Vet costs to the tune of $800 annually top the list of owning a dog, according to a recent National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA). The basics like puppy shots, flea and tick protection are a given, but what if your furry baby falls suddenly ill or is injured? An unplanned vet visit can be costly but is pet insurance worth the monthly premium? Amy Nelson, of Catonsville, Maryland is now considering pet insurance after a recent scare when her puppy, Blue, suddenly became ill. “Blue wasn’t eating and she was very lethargic,” recalls Nelson. “The vet, who seemed alarmed by Blue’s lethargy, expressed concern that she might have ingested something or be very sick.” Blood work, x-rays, and $550 later, nothing conclusive was found but happily Blue got better. Would pet insurance helped in Blue’s case? Yes, says Rob Jackson, co-founder and CEO of Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. “If Amy had enrolled her puppy in pet health insurance and the proper waiting period had passed of 15 days, her dog Blue would have been covered for all accidents, injuries, and illnesses; barring any preexisting conditions,” says Jackson. Monthly plans with most pet insurance companies start at around $20 per month.