Happy pet, happy owner

Why do YOU want a pet?

Most likely because you know that pets bring love and joy to their owners. In other words, a pet will make you and your family happy. But you also want your pet to be happy, healthy and well fed, basking in the love and security you can provide.

 Both are pretty good reasons to consider buying a cat or dog.  

Owning a pet is fun and rewarding, but there are strings attached as pet ownership comes with responsibilities. Domestic pets are dependent on you for their care and it’s best to know the facts before you buy your pet:

 Cost:     The upfront cost of buying a thoroughbred dog or cat can be anything from $500 upwards, depending on the breed. But that’s just the start. Taking in vaccinations, routine visits to the vet, obedience training, equipment, food, grooming, kennel care or pet sitters and general accessories, the estimated annual cost of a pet could be anything from $700 – $2,000.

Emergencies:    You never know when something’s going to happen to your pet. If it becomes seriously ill or meets with an accident, Vet costs can run into thousands of dollars. For example,  the average cost of multiple fractures was $2,444, with the highest claim being $19,325 according to claims received by Petsure in the year 2012-2013.

Pet insurance:   Health (medical)  insurance for pets is readily available from a number of insurers with different levels of cover depending on what you choose to have covered by the policy. Given the absence of any government scheme for animals like Medicare and the high cost of veterinary services, it’s certainly worth considering. While it is best to take this out when you first get your pet, it’s available, through Petsecure, right up to age 9 for accident and illness. After age 9 your pet would only qualify for accident cover. (Of course once the illness cover is in place, it is guaranteed renewable for life providing there is no break, lapse or change in the level of cover after the age of 9).

Exercise:    Dogs need exercise, just like humans, to maintain good health and unless they are on a large property you will need to set aside time to take them for a walk or run. The experts say 1 – 2 hours a day of exercise will keep a dog healthy and improve their quality of life.

Food:   Good nutrition is essential for your pet’s well-being. That means giving them appropriate foods in the right quantity for their body weight and resisting the temptation to overfeed them. It’s up to you to control their diet to prevent them becoming overweight. Consult your vet for advice on the right food and quantity and remember that water is as vital for your pets as it is for you!

Once you know the score, if you still want a pet then “go ahead, make their day … and yours!

But it’s not just about keeping your pet healthy, having a pet can also improve and keep you healthy! That’s a win-win!  Read more here.