Before you bring your furry friend home, make sure they'll suit your budget and lifestyle.

Find out how much it costs to have a cat or dog, how to choose the right breed and how you can pamper them on a budget.

Cost of owning a pet

Cats and dogs are a big personal and financial commitment.

In the first year alone, a cat or dog will cost you between $3,000 and $6,000. After your first year together expect to pay at least:

• $1,627 each year for a dog
• $962 each year for a cat

(Source: Pets in Australia report, Animal Medicines Australia)

On top of this, you'll need to pay for vet bills if your pet gets sick or injured. This can be very expensive. Factor it into your budget and consider whether pet insurance is right for you.

Make sure you consider all the costs of owning a pet:

Adopting or buying a pet	from $0 to $500 if you adopt, depending on the type of animal and its age $500 to a few thousand dollars if you buy from a breeder
Microchipping, vaccinations and de-sexing	up to $1,000 in the first year, or free if you adopt
Vet expenses	about $450 each year depending on your pet's health
Pet insurance	$20 to $60 each month
Pet essentials including a collar, bed, bowls and toys, kennel or scratching post	up to $500 in the first year, then about $100 each year
Flea, tick and worming medications	$300 to $450 each year depending on your pet's size
Council registration	between $30 and $190 per year
Pet food	up to $800 each year for premium dog food, plus treats
Boarding kennels and catteries	depends on location, time of year and length of stay. Can be between $25 to $50 a night
Other services including grooming and training	depends on your lifestyle and type of pet

Work out what you can afford

When you're thinking about getting a pet, consider all of the costs over the life of your pet.

Find the right pet for you

Take the time to find a pet that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Breed matters

Research breeds before choosing a new pet. Different breeds can have different temperaments and needs. For example:

• A breed with long hair will cost you more in grooming.
• A larger dog will eat more.
• Some breeds are prone to health problems that will cost you more in vet bills.

Consider where you live

If you live in a small apartment or work long hours, a breed that gets anxious or needs lots of exercise might not be happy. It may also:

• cause damage to your place
• cost you more in dog-sitting
• cause problems with your landlord or neighbours

Get a pet from a shelter

Not only can you save an animal that needs a home, it will already be de-sexed, wormed and vaccinated.

Getting a pet from a shelter is cheaper than getting one from breeders or pet shops. You may also save on local council registration fees.

Look after your pet on a budget

There are simple ways to cut the cost of pet ownership while keeping your pet happy and healthy.

Health

Regular exercise, a good diet and dental care are vital to your pet's health and happiness. It will also save you a lot in vet bills.

Holidays

If you can't take your furry friend with you, ask a friend to pet-sit in your home. It's cheaper than a kennel or cattery and more comfortable for your pet.

Grooming

Wash your dog yourself and learn how to trim its fur and nails. They won't mind if you give them a bad haircut, and you'll save on grooming costs.

Training

Do some research or join a free class and have fun training your dog.