What does it cost to own a pet?

“Mom, dad! I want a dog for my birthday!” is something many parents will have heard before. At some point many children suddenly decide they want a pet. Be it a hamster, a dog or a cat – everything is possible! Of course, no one normally buys a pet without thinking carefully first and discussing with their child the responsibilities that are involved. But can you discuss the costs with your kids? Should you?

For small pets, the most important considerations are feeding them, cleaning out their pens and cages, and caring for them during vacations. And it’s only right that these things are discussed. After all, the parents shouldn’t end up doing all the work – the children should help too. The costs of owning a pet should also be discussed. The fact that your child takes an interest in the animal means they have the ideal opportunity to learn something new. So why not sit down together and make a list of all the costs?

The costs can be discussed at different levels of complexity, depending on your child’s age. But regardless of how old they are, it’s important they understand that pets cost money. Even if a school friend gifts them a guinea pig pup for free, it still needs a pen and bedding. Visits to the vet may also be necessary. Pet ownership involves both one-time and recurring costs. Distinguishing between the two and making a list of the individual costs is a good way for your child to learn.

Even if you make a list of the one-time and recurring costs, the numbers will be very abstract for many kids and won’t mean much to them. We recommend comparing the costs with something that your child understands, like their monthly allowance or a trip to the swimming pool or the movies. How much allowance would they need to save to buy one month’s worth of pet food? This helps children put the amounts in perspective and understand that pets cost money.