How much does pet adoption cost?

– “No matter how little money and few possessions you have, having a dog makes you rich.” -Louis Sabin

This is the part that everyone wants to know about pet adoption, but no one wants to talk about. It’s rare that fees for adopting an animal are ever mentioned in those commercials we all see. That makes sense up to a point. Why would you want to ward off potential homeowners by laying out fees up front? Make them hook up and then roll them up!

Adopting a dog or a cat is not free. There, now that it’s out of the way, we can continue. Fortunately, adopting an animal doesn’t cost thousands of dollars like adopting a child, but you should at least be prepared for the cost. Here are some things to remember.

• Fees differ depending on the organization you choose. It is important to ask questions in advance so that you understand the fee schedule. The ASPCA website has a great tool here to search for adoptable dogs and cats in your area.
• Fees are higher for the youngest, most desirable animals: sometimes up to double the normal adoption amount.
• Fees can range from $80 to $120 for cats and $100 to $500 for dogs.
• Many adoption agencies require mandatory obedience training, which must be paid for by the adopting family. These classes are often offered at a discount. Check with your agency for more details.

Understanding the fees will help you not be surprised when starting the process. It cannot be overemphasized that knowing the cost in advance will be invaluable in finalizing a successful adoption. Be sure to research all the agencies in your area, as rates can vary widely from agency to agency.

Why does it cost so much?

Many people are understandably put off by the cost of adopting a shelter or rescue animal, when the cost of a “new” kitten or puppy can be the same or less. People often ask why adoption should cost so much and why it can’t just be free. The answer to this is clear. Taking care of these animals in shelters is not free. Many shelters and rescue agencies pay for surgeries, injections, spay/neuter and a host of other veterinary costs when they place an animal in their care. They do this to make sure adoptive families get the healthiest animal possible. Then there is the daily care of the animal. Food, shelter, and basic care, not to mention the cost of running the facility, are all borne by the shelter or rescue agency. Their adoption fees help ensure that they can continue to provide that care to many more dogs and cats in the future.

Most agencies go to great lengths to keep adoption costs to a minimum, which is why choosing a reputable agency is so important. Remember that many shelters also have a network of Foster Homes for their animals that provide care and a temporary home, in many cases the cost of this care comes directly from the Foster parent’s own pocket. These are volunteer homes that do not receive financial compensation for their services. They do it strictly out of love for the animals they raise.

Another benefit of the adoption fee is to discourage people who are unable or unwilling to spend money on the care and training of their dog. If a $150 adoption fee is too much, you may be unwilling or unable to pay the other costs associated with pet ownership. If adoption is something you want to do, save the money and be happy to pay, knowing that in most cases, the fee paid is far less than the actual costs incurred by the agency to rescue and care for your new friend.

What services are covered?

While each organization is different, many shelters and rescue organizations have already paid to have your dog or cat spayed or neutered. In addition, a growing number of agencies, such as the ASPCA, are microchipping animals before they are adopted, to help with the recovery of the animal in the event that it escapes or is stolen. Also, some agencies offer a bonus to cover veterinary bills (if they use their recommended vet) for a certain period of time and up to a certain dollar amount. You should check with your agency before beginning the process.

When asking about fees, it’s important to check up front and in writing, if possible, what exactly you’re getting for those fees. Some things to check:

• Is the animal already spayed/neutered? (Be sure to obtain the veterinary record for this procedure or a letter verifying that it has been performed.)
• Has the animal had a complete veterinary exam? (Get the records.)
• Does the animal have a microchip implanted? (Get the paperwork.)
• Has the animal been tested and treated for parasites, including heartworms? (Be sure to put in writing that the animal is heartworm negative.) Heartworm treatment can be very expensive, so be sure to check that it has been done before you decide to adopt. Some adoptions come with a year’s supply of heartworm medication. You’ll want to make sure you ask about this ahead of time.
• In larger breeds it is important to check if radiographs of the hips have been done and if there are records to rule out hip dysplasia.

In conclusion

This article was not meant to discourage you, but to provide you with the information you need to make your decision. As with any other important decision, having the information up front can save you a lot of money and headaches later on. Rest assured, no amount of money can be exchanged for the love and loyalty of a family pet. It will be money well spent!

Rates are estimates only and may be higher or lower. Be sure to check with the agency of your choice for the exact costs

Some fees may be tax deductible if made to a non-profit organization. Be sure to check with your tax preparer about this possibility.