Your mom wants a companion and settled her sights on a dog. You know she can adopt a dog from a local shelter without paying a penny, but you worry that the cost of care is going to be too much for your mom to afford. Here’s a breakdown of what typical vet care is required along with average prices in the U.S.
Standard Care
Each year, a dog needs a routine exam at the veterinarian’s office. Puppies and senior dogs may need to go more frequently. This exam should include a stool test to check for worms, a check of heart and lung sounds, a blood test to check for heartworm, a quick oral exam to look for tooth decay and inflamed gums, and a check of the coat for fleas, mites, and ticks. The veterinarian will feel the dog for lumps and check for potential muscle or joint problems.
Vaccinations may be required, depending on the last time they were administered. This includes rabies and a core vaccine that covers distemper, hepatitis, and parvo. Kennel cough, leptospirosis, and Lyme disease may also be recommended. Your mom will likely go home with a prescription for medications that prevent heartworm, fleas, and ticks.
Breaking Down the Costs
Medications for flea and tick prevention typically can cost around $40 to $60 for a three or four-month supply. Heartworm medications are less than $100 per year usually. The rest of the veterinary appointment can cost hundreds of dollars, depending on the tests and vaccinations given.
Other Expenses
There are other expenses to owning a pet that your mom must consider. A dog needs its teeth cleaned regularly. To do this at a veterinary office, it can cost upwards of $200 or more if teeth must be extracted. CBS News also released a report on average pet care costs and found that a joint injury can cost more than $3,000, while cancer can cost more than $2,000.
If your mom does get a dog, caregivers can help with some of the daily chores that keep her from spending time with her pet. Home care professionals can help sweep the floor, prepare meals, and help do the laundry. Depending on the agency, caregivers may also help your mom walk the dog and make sure your mom gets her dog to the vet for regular check-ups. Call a home care agency today to find out more.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering home health care in Huntington Beach, CA, please contact the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today!
1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Sources:
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/sick-pet-highest-and-lowest-veterinary-costs-cats-dogs-by-state/
http://www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/puppys-first-vet-expect/
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/prod_Display.cfm?pCatId=9464
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