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13 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Thursday, June 11, 2009 Consider the costs before committing to pet ownership The costs of owning a pet vary significantly -- small dogs $800 annually, medium dogs $1,000, large dogs as much as $1,500 and cats could cost as much as $640 each year. Seem like a lot? These figures, published by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty toward Animals (ASPCA), may at first seem high. There is no doubt that pet ownership has many costs that prospective buyers don't consider before making an emotional and financial investment. All animals have the same basic minimum requirements ­ food, a place to sleep/play, toys, and veterinarian/medical care. In addition, it is mandatory in the Town of Oakville for dogs to be licensed and for cats to have identification (microchip, name tag). Even these minimum requirements can add up. Training is also a helpful tool for managing dogs and grooming in some cases is essential. Add in the expense of kennel care or pet sitting services and the cost of pet ownership can increase significantly. "It is important to consider all of the expenses before making a decision to take on a pet," stated Heather White, the Community Outreach and Education Manager at the Oakville & District Humane Society, who recommends looking closely at the costs and being realistic about what is affordable. Euromonitor International, the world's leading independent provider of business intelligence on industries, countries and consumers, reported earlier this year that growth in the Canadian pet industry is strong and that pet healthcare and dietary supplements remain "dynamic growth categories" as will "superpremium pet foods" that offer added health benefits, particularly for a growing aging and obese pet population. People are also investing in other non-essential luxury items (accessories, clothing, pet services). Although spending on pets is strong, not everyone recognizes that care for a pet can be compromised quickly with changes in financial situation. Being prepared to manage and plan for this expense annually will help prevent having to surrender a pet because of financial circumstance, as is often seen at the Oakville & District Humane Society. "If you are considering pet ownership, write up the perceived expenses associated with the care and keeping of that animal," recommended White, who also offered that breeders, veterinarians, animal specialty stores and the Internet can provide realistic numbers to fill in the blanks. For example, take a look at small bird ownership. The ASPCA identified small birds as "one of the cheapest pets." Small birds such as parakeets require food, toys and a cage, estimated at $170 US. The number does not include veterinarian care. "No matter what animal you choose, a pet should not be considered disposable. Once you assume ownership, if you run into trouble taking care of your pet it's not always that easy to just surrender them to another owner," said White, who indicated that the Oakville & District Humane Society has a waiting list of animals to come into the shelter to find new homes. "Planning ahead can help avoid the emotional and financial distress of pet ownership, when it is no longer affordable," added White. "Make sure you do the math before making a commitment, in the best interests of both you and the pet." HR TAX Celebrity Flooring presents... $1350 REBATE Engineered Premium Quality 3 1/4" Red Oak Mocha-Uni lock Reg $7.95 Now $3.99 sq.ft. Hardwood & Engineered Flooring from N CANAEDIA SEL CT PL OAK & MA E FROM $1.99 sq. ft. 3 1/2" Jatoba Renaissance Trump's Treasure Reg $8.95 Now $4.79 sq.ft. $3.99 sq. ft. From LAMINATE 8mm 99¢ 12 mm $1.99 s r r TM Quantities Limited THE QUEENSWAY Installation Available KIPLING AVE. 486 Evans Ave., Unit #11 Etobicoke GARDINER EXPY./QEW 486 EVANS, #11 W 416-201-0299 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Mon.-Wed., Fri., 10-6 Thurs. 10-8 Sat. 10-5 Mon.-Wed., Fri., 0-6 Thurs. 0-8 Sat. 0-5