The real cost of owning a dog

Our first step is to have a temperament assessment performed on the dog. This test includes testing to see if the dog allows a person to touch it and handle it (teeth, ears, etc.). Another part of the test determines if the dog has any food or possession aggression. The dog is also tested for its reaction to strangers, loud noises, and other animals. Further temperament assessment is done once the dog is removed from the shelter environment. This includes testing the dog for territorialism and fear or dislike of men/women/children. Once it is determined that the dog is of sound temperament, the dog is altered, vaccinated, tested for heartworm and put on heartworm prevention. 

Our placement fees cover the vet costs that we incur to prepare the dog for adoption. Although we do receive discounts from area vets, we do not receive free vet services. Many people wonder why rescued dogs aren't free. They aren't free because they have been vetted, fed, trained and groomed. Someone pays those costs to get the dog ready for adoption. The placement fee is used to offset the costs of the next dog that we help. 

To give you an idea of the costs for the medical treatment, training, toys, equipment and food  that a dog requires, the table below outlines the average costs for these things in the Ottawa area: 
 

Type of Treatment/Expense	Cost
Vaccinations  Full set of puppy vaccinations (usually 3 shots, 4 weeks apart),  bordetella and rabies (at 16 weeks)	$30-50 per visit  Average of 4 visits per year ($120-200)
Annual exam and vaccinations	$45-60
Annual fecal and urinanalysis Price varies from vet clinic to vet clinic	$22-50
Spay  Weight of dog enters into the cost	$135-300
Neuter  Weight of dog enters into the cost	$85-185
Annual Heartworm Test  Price varies from vet clinic to vet clinic	$13-38
Heartworm Prevention  Price depends on weight of dog and type of preventative medication	$28-63
Defleaing (Topical)  Price depends on the weight of the dog.	$7-10 per dose  ($28-40 per season)
Deworming  Price depends on the type of medication, weight of dog and number of doses required	$10-40  (per dose)
Annual Blood Panel Price varies from vet clinic to vet clinic	$30-75
Obedience Training (per session)  Price depends on the school	$50-175
Crate  Price depends on size and type	$50-300
Toys and Accessories	$100-300
Grooming  Price depends on dog's size, coat type and frequency	$17-200  (per visit)
Food and Treats  Amount depends on the quality of food and the quantity consumed per month	$22-60  (per 40 lbs. bag)
License  License fees vary from township to township. Some offer a discounted fee if the dog is altered	$15-30
Microchip Implant	$28-60
Pet Health Insurance  Price depends on company, coverage, breed and age of dog	$9.95-44  (per month)