Costs of Adopting
Getting a new rescue pet can be a truly rewarding experience and bring lots of love and happiness into your life.
While this experience is priceless, it’s important not to underestimate the costs associated with owning a pet. Whether they’re big, small, old or young, the expenses do add up.
Before adopting a pet, you should carefully consider the budget of supporting your new family member over their whole lifetime. Pets can cost thousands of dollars to care for, so you need to make sure you’re ready for the financial commitment.
Here is a basic guide on the types of costs to expect when bringing a new family member into your home.
Upfront Costs
Paid to the Rescue Organisation
Bedding, bowls, collars, leads, toys - get ready to bring your best friend home!
Budget for the trip to fetch your new pal
Make sure your new buddy is in tip-top shape with a visit to the Vet
Average annual household spend on pets*
Dogs
Cats
Small Animals
Birds
Repeat Costs
Cost will significantly vary depending on the type, breed and size of your pet. A large dog will be more expensive to feed compared to a small guinea pig.
Like us humans our pets enjoy treats too! Treats are also an essential tool for training.
For enrichment and interactive play.
To maintain a clean environment, products could include things like waste bags, cage cleaner, litter and more.
For a good night’s sleep and a place to relax, creating a cosy and safe place for your pet requires regular upkeep.
Although an upfront cost when bringing home your pet, expect to keep paying for accessories such as bowls, coats and collars every year.
To keep your pet looking and feeling their best whether you’re taking them to a professional groomer or brushing, bathing, clipping at home.
Supplements, vitamins and flea, tick & worm treatments.
To maintain your pet’s vaccinations and overall health. Pet insurance is a great way to help cover the costs of an unexpected vet visit.
*Source: Animal Medicines Australia, Pets In Australia: A National Survey of Pets and People, 2022
A long time ago, we made a choice not to sell dogs or cats in our stores.
Instead, we’re advocates for pet adoption, and our stores proudly partner up with rescue groups in Australian and New Zealand communities to promote lovable rescue pets.
Whether it’s by holding in-store pet adoption days or fundraising and awareness activities, we’re devoted giving homeless pets a voice and helping them find loving families.
100% of donations to the Petstock Foundation are donated to charities who share our values, individual rescue groups, grant recipients and many more deserving partners.