Hi everyone,
We're seeing lots of new puppies on the forum at the moment, so I thought it might be useful to share the costs you need to budget for in the first year, as it often ends up being more expensive than you'd think:
- microchipping (usually already sorted by the breeder or rescue centre)
- initial vaccinations and boosters (several jabs over the first few months)
- worming, flea and tick treatments all year round
- neutering or spaying if you're planning on it
- and the hardest part to plan for: the unexpected (tummy bugs, parasites, minor accidents...) which can easily run into several hundred pounds
Personally, I ended up comparing pet insurance to have a safety net for any surprise bills, rather than having to pay out a lump sum when something happens. How about you? How did you organise your budget for the first year? Did you take out insurance or do you put some money aside each month?