Just keeping track of prices here!

[fogebotom]

Originally Posted by glencorgi

Initial price of the puppy is the cheapest part of the deal of going into dog ownership, so I'm sure we're missing something. One problem is we just do so much of this stuff without thinking, it is hard sometimes to itemize.

Debbie

I honestly had to sit back and think about it for awhile. You are right, after awhile, some of it is second nature and you don't even think about it. The life time commitment after the purchase is the most expensive part.

I do have a question about the choice of where to get your pup--have you contacted the breeder? How much has she grilled you about getting the pup? If she is more then willing to let you purchase a pup without much more then how you are going to pay for it, is this really a person that you want to buy a dog from? Have you asked for health clearances on the parents? References from other people who have bought dogs from her? Has this person asked if your mom is okay with it and asked to talk to her?

The reason I say this is granted, your mom hasn't said yes yet, but you also need to prove to your mom that you know what you are getting yourself into and that the breeder is backing you up and your decision. I placed a pup in a home with a 14 yr old girl this summer. Most of my communication was with her, but I also spent many nights on the phone with the parents making sure the commitment was there with the entire family. I asked for references on the young lady, the family and even talked to one of her teachers, all before I even said yes, I would put her on the list for a puppy.

Just another thing to think about and one more time---where is your cost for obedience classes?????

[Dillydoodle]

The initial cost of a puppy, first vet visit, and initial supplies are the least expensive part of dog ownership. Investing in a corgi that has been bred by a reputable breeder, one who screens the dogs being bred for health clearances is very very important. Just because a dog "looks good" doesnt mean it is healthy. When a dog does get sick , the bills can add up fast... my second corgi i rescued last february has cost me in medicaiton, tests and vet bills about $7,500 in 8 months to finally get his condition stabilized... and now his monthly medication will cost about $60-70 a month for the rest of his life ( he just turned 3 ) not to mention the $200 blood test he needs every 3-6 months also for the rest of his life... you never know, and when you do get a dog from a less than reputable breeder, the chances for genetic problems, sickness and costy issues are greater... you really do get what you pay for...

There are so many hidden costs to having a dog...your price itimization list is the tip of the iceberg...

Emilie

[Corgis4me]

Freppan,

While I think you are trying to show maturity by making a list of necessities for a new puppy, I personally don't know any 14 year old that can financially take care of all expenses for a dog. I have teenagers so I know how it is with them wanting something right away. And though they walk the dog on occasion and feed him, he is not the focus of their lives with them being in high school, as other normal teen stuff takes up their time.

Since it is just you and your mom. your mom needs to be 100% in agreement with getting this new puppy is right for the two of you, not just 95% sure; since the majority of the expenses will fall on her shoulders, and probably some of the care, and I don't think begging her or trying to guilt trip her into getting this dog is a good idea.

I am wondering what are your plans are 4 years from now? Do you plan on leaving home for college or do you plan to live at home and attend school or will you be moving out to work full time? If you will be going away to college, has your mom agreed to taking care of this dog full time at that point? Moving out will require housing that will accept dogs; they are available, but not always easy to find.

And unexpected vet expenses will happen. This dog will be your responsiblity for the next 12 - 15 years of your life which will put you in your mid twenties and so much will change in your life between now and then. And while I think dog sitting for your aunts dog is a good idea and responsible of you, it is not the same as being the owner of one in which you bear the responsibility of all costs and care.

And I agree with others have said in searching out a good breeder who does the necessary health tests, which will give you better odds of having a healthier dog in the long run.

[MattC]

Hi Freppan,
I noticed that you did your cost take offs from Petco. My wife and I have found that on line purchases for supplies tend to be more economical than the large chain stores. Of course you can't buy everything through mail order but the basics I.E water/food bowls, leashes, collars, and most important toys can certainly be purchased. I have found the at Petedge.com and dog.com are very good. In additon they often run offering such as free shipping over a reasonably amount of money.

[MyPemCharlie]

I agree with Matt. In fact, I think PetCo is even more expensive than PetSmart....but I've found the best deals online.

I got Charlie an indestructible Jolly Ball with handle on eBay for about 1/2 price. It's one of his favorite toys.

Also look at drugstore.com. The Buddy Wash Shampoo and Conditioner is about half of PetCo's price. They don't have a huge selection of pet supplies, but they have pretty good values on items they stock. And you get free shipping on orders over $25 (new customers).

[Freppan]

Originally Posted by Corgis4me

While I think you are trying to show maturity by making a list of necessities for a new puppy,

It's not really about that, it's more so that I actually KNOW what I need to make.

I personally don't know any 14 year old that can financially take care of all expenses for a dog.

Well, I'm using money that I have saved and that I am going to make babysitting until I am 15. When I am 15, I can get a real job. I don't think it will be too much of a problem in case there is a medical emergency. That's why I plan to save every last cent that I make. If something horrible and unexpected happens (let's hope not) I admit that I may need some help from family.

I have teenagers so I know how it is with them wanting something right away. And though they walk the dog on occasion and feed him, he is not the focus of their lives with them being in high school, as other normal teen stuff takes up their time.

What do you mean by "other normal teen stuff"? I rarely go to friends' houses, I'm pretty much sitting around, bored as hell around here. Of course, I have homework sometimes, but nothing that takes up much time. I have plenty of time to walk and play.

Since it is just you and your mom. your mom needs to be 100% in agreement with getting this new puppy is right for the two of you,

Certainly. We have been discussing it, and she's going to see how things go with my saved money and how well I do when watching Imus.

not just 95% sure; since the majority of the expenses will fall on her shoulders, and probably some of the care, and I don't think begging her or trying to guilt trip her into getting this dog is a good idea.

I wouldn't say the majority. I get enough money each month from babysitting to buy dog food etc. The only thing that she would ever really need to help with is emergencies. Which can be expensive, yes.

I am wondering what are your plans are 4 years from now? Do you plan on leaving home for college or do you plan to live at home and attend school or will you be moving out to work full time? If you will be going away to college, has your mom agreed to taking care of this dog full time at that point? Moving out will require housing that will accept dogs; they are available, but not always easy to find.

I understand this and have thought about it quite a bit. Since I will be working next year (say... 8 months from now?) I will I be saving every penny. Over the course of 4 years, that should be quite a bit, considering we have minimum wage and all that. If I go to a near by college, both the dog and I will stay here. If not (which is likely), I will rent an apartment that allows pets. I realize that this could be somewhat difficult to find, but not impossible. I will have to start looking long before the time actually comes.

And I agree with others have said in searching out a good breeder who does the necessary health tests, which will give you better odds of having a healthier dog in the long run.

I plan to talk to the breeder I am currently focused on some more soon. Health testing is of my main concerns right now.

[Corgis4me]

Originally Posted by Freppan

What do you mean by "other normal teen stuff"?

Sports, school clubs, social outings with friends.

Originally Posted by Freppan

If something horrible and unexpected happens (let's hope not) I admit that I may need some help from family.

So your mom would pay a $500-$1000 unexpected bill if necessary?

Originally Posted by Freppan

If I go to a near by college, both the dog and I will stay here. If not (which is likely), I will rent an apartment that allows pets. I realize that this could be somewhat difficult to find, but not impossible. I will have to start looking long before the time actually comes.

Do you mean if you attend college out of town, you will rent an apartment?
Would be very expensive, along with financially fully caring for a dog; fitting in a job to support all that with school studies would be difficult. Plus many universities(not all) require that their students must in dorms their first two years if you aren't within a certain driving distance.

Originally Posted by Freppan

I plan to talk to the breeder I am currently focused on some more soon. Health testing is of my main concerns right now.

That's good.

[glencorgi]

Anyone else experiencing deja vu? The only reason to continue in this thread that I see (and have learned from experience) is that perhaps a lurker might learn something.

And once the part time job begins, well there will be some finances to take care of dog needs, but who will taking primary care of the corgi while you are at work?

Other incidental life things - boyfriends, driver's license, car, $ for gas for the car to get to the part time job to make money for corgi's needs.

I'm not worried though, there will be answers to each of the above just as there have been for everything else brought up. I can also see the writing on the wall if Mom caves.

Debbie

[Dillydoodle]

Debbie,
I agree with you... just lately it seems like everywhere i turn i am hearing about people giving up on their dogs and i just feel like i would rather dissuade someone from rushing into getting a corgi just so it can be re-homed down the road . Maybe I am old fashioned, but i feel like when you make a committment to getting a dog or cat it is for their whole life. I feel like too many people get pets and then when money is tight, or they get sick, or need special behavioral training or special care, they are dumped... and it just makes me sad for the animals. now if we could only do something about all the back yard breeders, hoarders, and puppy mills....sigh

Emilie

[Freppan]

I can also see the writing on the wall if Mom caves.

What exactly do you mean by this?

As for the part time job, I'll go often, but there are laws. You can only work for a few hours if you are as young as I am- something about child labor or whatever. I will make money, but it's not like I'm going to be gone all day. If school ends at 4, and I work 2-3 hours, I will be home about 6. Not unlike an adult with a regular job. There will be plenty of time, especially counting the weekends (and the summer for quite a few years), to spend with my dog.

Originally Posted by Dillydoodle

Debbie,
I agree with you... just lately it seems like everywhere i turn i am hearing about people giving up on their dogs and i just feel like i would rather dissuade someone from rushing into getting a corgi just so it can be re-homed down the road . Maybe I am old fashioned, but i feel like when you make a committment to getting a dog or cat it is for their whole life. I feel like too many people get pets and then when money is tight, or they get sick, or need special behavioral training or special care, they are dumped... and it just makes me sad for the animals.
Emilie

I don't know if I should be insulted. I would never take an animal into my heart and my life just to rehome them, disown them to the pound, or abandon them. I may be young but I'm not dumb, I know that animals are for life. I don't want a dog because they're cute, or because they grab attention, although those are great things, too. I want one as a companion, a friend, someone to play with, someone to get excercise with, and to love. I want someone who will love me unconditionally, and look past all my faults, as long as there's food to eat. I want someone to run with, to get tired with, and to fall asleep with. And most importantly, someone to grow up with.

[glencorgi]

Emelie,

Owner retention which you covered in the beginning of your post is the major reason shelters and rescues are full and overflowing.

Debbie

[glencorgi]

Originally Posted by Freppan

What exactly do you mean by this?

Exactly what I said. Been there, seen it, had the fosters and worn the t-shirts.

As for the part time job, I'll go often, but there are laws. You can only work for a few hours if you are as young as I am- something about child labor or whatever. I will make money, but it's not like I'm going to be gone all day. If school ends at 4, and I work 2-3 hours, I will be home about 6. Not unlike an adult with a regular job. There will be plenty of time, especially counting the weekends (and the summer for quite a few years), to spend with my dog.

Thanks for making my point - answer for everything.

Debbie

[Corgis4me]

Originally Posted by Freppan

I don't know if I should be insulted. I would never take an animal into my heart and my life just to rehome them, disown them to the pound, or abandon them.

People who get dogs don't intend to do what you just said, but it happens plenty, just look at your local pound and on petfinder. People change, circumstances happen beyond our control, or the pet just gets in the way and often gets the short end of the stick. That is why getting a dog should be the right decision for your mom as well as you since you will be going through many changes in the next several years.

[Dillydoodle]

I am not trying to insult anyone... i have just seen plenty of dogs that were once loved and cared for suddenly need to be rehomed as their owner had a baby and they dont have time for both or the dog has "issues" with the baby.. or the owner goes off to college, and the parents get stuck with the dog and dont want it anymore or the kid who does take the dog with them but realize that they cannot give the dog a fair life becuase they are not home enough, being that they are in school full time and working lots of hours to afford the apartment so they can have the dog. If you are offended by this, maybe you should take a second look before rushing into something... it would be one thing if your mother was the one who wanted a dog and you were going to benefit from her wanting it... rather than you guilting her into getting the puppy for you and having things not turn out so great... as often happens.. sorry if i have offended but best that there be someone to give potential buyers a reality check...

Emilie

[MattC]

I agree with Dillydoodle. I know this is a sensitve issue but it is true as peoples lives get busy they often get distracted. I have a friend who is finding it rather hard to take of her coon hound after her split with her boyfriend. Careers, life, what have you, often lead you down paths you may never have thought you would go.

Just last year my wife and I had to move out of our apartment and we found it very hard to find affordable rentals that allow animals. Needless to say the additional cost of having to pay top dollar for 700 square feet because landlords don't like chewed up base mouldings is something to consider.

Also, roommates... which in almost every case when college is involved is something to consider. Sometimes roommates don't always behave. Especially when animals are concerned. You have to be careful. You don't want the roommate who is going to put a fifth of whiskey in your corgi's food bowl when you are at class. Or leave the door open for the pooch to get loose. Anyway, I don't want to paint too nasty of a picture but these are things to consider.