It was two years,eight months,and 16 days since I last saw him. Thanks to the pandemic,it took much longer for me to organise his move to Australia.
I was worried he’d forgotten me after all these years apart. But as soon as he saw me,he kissed my face over and over,while jumping excitedly. He never forgot me. I was overjoyed by our reunion,something I had dreamt about for years. Being together now,it feels like no time had passed.
While I have had many dogs in my lifetime,this is my first time to have a dog in Australia. I am getting a bit of price shock with the cost of owning a dog here.
Back in the Philippines,I only paid about $A13 for dog grooming. Here,it took me five phone calls to find a groomer available in my area. Most were fully booked for months. Others were not taking on new clients. The groomer who finally took in Spark charged me $108 for a basic groom for my small shih-tzu.
I recently brought my dog to the vet to have his eye,ear and reddish paw checked. It turned out to be nothing serious,but I left paying $256 for the consult and two medicines. Ouch! Then,there’s the dog food and treats. Should I get pet insurance?
As the cost of living rises and many Australians are struggling to find a house or apartment to rent with a pet,many are turning in their dogs to the shelter. Many shelters are at full capacity. There are also reports of people who acquired a dog during lockdown now and dumping their dogs.
Perhaps it is vital to educate people on the actual costs of owning a dog before they commit to adding one to their family.According to,expect to spend around $1627 each year for a dog. This includes vet bills,medications,council registration,pet food,grooming and training.
Costs are higher in the first year of dog ownership when you have to pay for microchipping,vaccinations and de-sexing. At a time when many Australians are struggling to keep up with the rising mortgage rates and escalating rental costs,the financial sting of owning a pet becomes real for many families.
While the cost of $135 a month to keep a dog may still be affordable to many families,for some it may be $135 they don’t have. It becomes a clearer decision to surrender a dog when they can no longer afford the treatment for a medical condition.
But a dog is not a simple item in the monthly budget. My dog is family to me. For many people like me,dogs are family,companion and best friend rolled into one. My heart melts seeing a homeless person sitting on the pavement curled up with a blanket and their dog,the only family they have left.
Two days ago,as I purchased dog treats for Spark,I had to cut down on spending snacks for myself. But as I smile seeing his cute face every single day,I am reminded that having a dog is great for my wellbeing and mental health. Having a dog makes me happier,more relaxed,and feel loved. I got Spark when I was struggling with anxiety attacks. Patting and playing with a dog calmed me down.
His name is Spark because I lost the spark in my eye when I was anxious. This little puppy brought the spark back into my eye. Going for walks with Spark twice daily,as we engage with other people,is a joyful routine for us.I rationalise that the $135 a month of owning a dog is cheaper than going to see a psychologist or a therapist.
Owning a dog is a both a blessing and a responsibility not to be taken lightly. Before looking and melting into those adorable puppy eyes,remember the financial implications of owning a dog. It is something you will continue to commit to long after they grow out of their cute puppy features.
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