If you are thinking of getting a dog.........

[Immaculatemisconception]

Our dog is now 12 and is giving us quite a lot of trouble. She's had some urinary incontinence, although that's now under control, she sometimes wakes us in the night, she's can't jump into the car anymore, she's a bit sore and stiff in the mornings, she's very needy in terms of cuddles and our vet's bills have been expensive. She's on a special diet, which is more expensive. We can't leave her with anyone, so holidays etc., are looking a bit tricky.

We don't mind any of this because we love her and she's devoted her life to us. As she ages, we will make sure she's loved, comfortable and cared for.

My reason for posting is to highlight that dogs do get old and they will potentially cost you more at the vet's and will possibly restrict your lives.

It's just something else to think about if you're considering adding a dog to your family.

My dog is only 5 years old, insured but has cost us a serious lot of money in all the excess charges for each of his many ailments since he was a very young puppy.

Due to stomach issues as a puppy he still thinks it's fine to get up in the early hours for a pee/poo. I just mutter that it's a good job I love him as I let him out at a stupid hour in the morning.

I don't think you are wrong but I don't actually think it is only when they get old. Mine has been hard work since we got him with medical issues and I know others who have had different problems but still with a young dog. Getting a dog is about being responsible for them throughout their life no matter what age.

Oh god you've set me off crying op. She sounds very loved and adored

Good post. I'm a vet nurse so mostly see those that are taken care of. But have also seen many euthanised on financial grounds.
I also work with a rescue and they're generally full of older animals with health conditions. Often given up due to inconvenience or cost at the time in their lives when they need their owners most.

Thankfully there are lots of owners like you OP, I see so many go above and beyond for their pets. They're a huge commitment though that's for sure.

@BiteyShark

My dog is only 5 years old, insured but has cost us a serious lot of money in all the excess charges for each of his many ailments since he was a very young puppy.

Due to stomach issues as a puppy he still thinks it's fine to get up in the early hours for a pee/poo. I just mutter that it's a good job I love him as I let him out at a stupid hour in the morning.

I don't think you are wrong but I don't actually think it is only when they get old. Mine has been hard work since we got him with medical issues and I know others who have had different problems but still with a young dog. Getting a dog is about being responsible for them throughout their life no matter what age.

You are absolutely right and yes you have to be responsible for them throughout their lives.

I think it's a good thing to talk about the cost, the worry and the responsibility that accompanies owning a dog. Actually, not just a dog, any pet.

@inmyslippers

Oh god you've set me off crying op. She sounds very loved and adored

Bless you, yes we absolutely adore her.

@Anonaymoose

Good post. I'm a vet nurse so mostly see those that are taken care of. But have also seen many euthanised on financial grounds. I also work with a rescue and they're generally full of older animals with health conditions. Often given up due to inconvenience or cost at the time in their lives when they need their owners most.

Thankfully there are lots of owners like you OP, I see so many go above and beyond for their pets. They're a huge commitment though that's for sure.

Often given up due to inconvenience or cost at the time in their lives when they need their owners most.

That's so sad and some of the reason I started the thread.

My rescue is 2 and due to emotional / mental health issues can’t be left with anyone else.
I love her but I won’t have a holiday for a long time.

I think costs can be totally underestimated until you are faced with a significant vet bill.

And the worry. I am sure some of my colleagues think I am crazy for the amount of money I have spent on him and the time I have nursed him for weeks to get him better after operations.

I do think it is about how you view animals in general. There are those that think it's 'just a dog' and those like you OP where they are part of the family.

Holiday..... what's that ? My old boy is deaf, his eyesight is sketchy and he's showing signs of dementia. Love the bones of him but my life revolves around him for the foreseeable.

I've heard it said that grief is the price you pay for having dogs.

Whilst that's true, I'd also say that really high vets bills are also the price you pay for having dogs

@GertrudeBElion

I've heard it said that grief is the price you pay for having dogs.

Whilst that's true, I'd also say that really high vets bills are also the price you pay for having dogs

So true!