Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Think Twice Before Getting A Pet!

At Real Estate Options we are VERY pet-friendly.  But, before you jump in and get a pet - you should make sure you can truly afford one.  In 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, we Americans as a whole spent over $60 BILLION on our critters.
Some pets are less expensive to maintain than others.  Did you know the MOST EXPENSIVE pet to own is a rabbit?  Bunnies come in as the most expensive pet to feed and maintain at $730 per year!
Here's how other animals rate in cost per year:
Fish - $35;  Small Dog - $355; Small Bird - $200; Large Dog - $650; Cat - $495; Medium Dog - $470; Guinea Pig - $635 and a small mammal (like a gerbil) - $300.
If you decide to get a pet while you are living with us - be sure to get permission first. You will need to sign a Pet Agreement and pay a one-time pet deposit.  While we can rent to any dog breed, there are a handful of dog breeds that require that you also have Renters Insurance that covers the dog.  Of course, Renters Insurance is a smart decision whether you have a dog or not -- but that's a whole 'nother blog for another day!  If you do make the decision you CAN afford a pet - you are in for a lifetime of love, joy and fun!