A pet may be more expensive than you think. Be realistic about how much you can afford. Here’s a run down of start-up expenses relating to different pets:

• Amphibians, reptiles, and fish: Aquarium, filter, heater, plants, owner’s manual.
• Birds and rodents: Cage, bedding or cage liner, dishes, toys, owner’s manual.
• Dogs and cats: License, collar, leash, brush, toys, dishes, bed, owner’s manual.

Here are some other ongoing costs to consider:

Food Bedding Litter Grooming or grooming supplies Regular well-pet veterinary care Sick, trauma, or emergency veterinary care Vaccinations and other medical care as needed

Do you have the time and energy to feed, clean or groom, handle, train, exercise, and take your pet to the veterinarian regularly? Here’s a run down of minimum time needed to provide basic care for a pet:

• Amphibians, reptiles, and fish 10 minutes per day, plus 3 hours every few weeks
• Hamsters, mice, guinea pigs, and rabbits 30 minutes per day
• Cats and birds 30 to 60 minutes per day
• Dogs More than one hour per day

Remember that these times are bare minimums, and all pets deserve to be in a loving home with people who have the time and energy to take care of them and spend time building the special bond.

(Excerpted in part from Choosing and Caring for Your Family Pet, published by AAHA Press, 1998.)