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It’s no secret that owning a pet in New Zealand can be expensive, especially if you’re a first-time pet owner. From adoption fees and initial veterinary care to day-to-day items and ongoing routine costs, the expenses all add up. While owning a pet is a tremendous joy, it’s important to understand and budget for the cost of pet ownership before bringing home a new companion.
Initial Costs
When you take home a new pet, there are a few initial costs you can expect to pay.
- Adoption Fees: The cost of adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue can vary. Depending on the size, age, and origin of the animal, adoption fees can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. These fees typically cover any vaccinations, deworming, and health checks that have been provided prior to adoption.
- Veterinary Care: Upon bringing your pet home for the first time, there are a few veterinary costs you can expect. If the pet hasn’t already received its most recent vaccinations, this may need to be done. In addition, you may need to purchase flea/tick/ worm prevention, and your pet may need to be spayed or neutered. All of these services come at a cost, and can add up pretty quickly.
Ongoing Costs
Beyond the initial expenses, there are also many ongoing costs associated with pet ownership in New Zealand.
- Food: Pet food is one of the largest ongoing costs associated with pet ownership in New Zealand. The cost of food for your pet can vary greatly depending on the size and breed of your pet, as well as the quality of food you choose to feed them. It’s important to choose a food that meets the nutritional needs of your pet and is appropriate for their age and life stage.
- Supplies: Pets require a variety of supplies in order to stay happy, healthy, and comfortable. These supplies can include crates, beds, toys, grooming tools, collars, and leashes. The cost of these supplies can vary greatly depending on your pet’s individual needs and the type of products you choose.
- Ongoing Veterinary Care: In addition to the initial veterinary costs associated with bringing your pet home, you can also expect to pay for ongoing medical care. This includes regular checkups and vaccinations, as well as any additional care your pet may require. Costs vary according to the type and frequency of care your pet needs to stay healthy.
Additional Costs
In addition to the initial and ongoing costs of pet ownership, there are also some additional costs that pet owners in New Zealand may need to budget for.
- Pet Insurance: Pet insurance can be a great investment for pet owners in New Zealand as it helps to protect against unexpected medical costs. Pet insurance policies vary in cost and coverage, so it’s important to do your research and select a policy that fits your pet’s needs and your budget.
- Boarding/Pet Sitting: If you’re planning to be away from home for an extended period of time, you may need to budget for boarding or pet sitting services. This can be a pricey expense, so it’s important to plan ahead and shop around for the best rates.
- Training: Pets benefit from positive reinforcement training. This type of training can be time consuming and costly, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment.
Owning a pet is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to understand the cost of pet ownership before making the commitment. There are many initial and ongoing costs associated with pet ownership in New Zealand, as well as additional expenses such as pet insurance and boarding fees. Knowing these costs and budgeting accordingly can help to ensure that you’re able to provide the best possible care for your furry friend.