A visit to the vet can be a life saver, but it can also be time consuming and expensive. Especially when those visits might be avoided (as well as their costs). Talking to an online vet, like the ones at Pawp’s 24/7 digital vet clinic, can save you time, money, and a lot of worrying. Whether it’s 2 pm or 2 am, an online vet is on call to help you with any pet question or emergency — and let you know if you can resolve your issue at home.
Each week, Pawp’s online vets answer common questions about cats and dogs from Pawp members. Last week’s Ask A Vet was all about what cats and dogs should (and shouldn’t) eat. This week, the vets discuss registering pets, how much it costs to own a pet and what vaccinations they’ll need.
Ask Pawp’s Online Vets Anything
Do I have to register my pet?
Pet licensing in the United States varies city to city and state to state, but in most places, you are required to register your pet. Despite the fact that there is no national law, having an unlicensed pet can mean a hefty fine. Check in with your local city and state government websites to see what the specific laws require of you. Spending some money to register your pet can save you money and hassle in the future. Registering your pet means they will need to wear a collar with your contact details, meaning if you ever get separated from each other, there’s a better chance of being reunited.
Read More: Should You Microchip Your Dog?
How much does it cost to own a dog?
Welcoming a new dog into the home is a wonderful gift, but it can be quite expensive. There are a few factors that contribute to the cost of owning a dog, and those will vary depending on where you live. Dogs require food, veterinary care, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, household items, toys, boarding, dog walking fees. Depending on where you live and the services you require, a dog can cost anywhere from $99 to $929 a month. That’s about $1,188 to $11,148 a year.
Read More: How Much Does Owning A Dog Cost?
How much does it cost to own a cat?
Bringing a new cat into your life is wonderful, but undoubtedly an expense to add to your budget. Kittens generally require more attention than adult cats (as do senior cats) and costs vary quite a bit across the United States. Generally within the first year a cat will cost $1,174 with vaccinations, checkups, food, litter, household items, spaying/neutering and any other services they might require. Adult cats generally require less maintenance, costing around $809 a year.
What vaccinations do dogs need?
All dogs will need the core vaccines: distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo, and parainfluenza. Additionally your dog will need a rabies vaccine, which is required by law in most states. Depending on where you live and what diseases are prevalent there, your dog might need other vaccines, like lyme disease. If your dog does daycare or goes to the groomer, bordetella vaccine is recommended to ward off kennel cough. To check out location specific vaccine recommendations, visit here.
Read More: Should I Get My Dog Vaccinated? Yes!
What vaccinations do cats need?
All cats will need their core vaccines: panleukopenia (feline distemper), feline calicivirus, feline viral rhinotracheitis. Additionally your cat will need a rabies vaccine, which is required by law in most states. If your cat spends time outdoors, it’s recommended that they get vaccinated for feline leukemia. If your cat goes to the groomers or spends time at the kennel/boarding, they might need the bordetella vaccine. They also can be vaccinated for chlamydia. Keeping on top of your cat’s vaccines is especially important for any cats that spend time outside.