Pet Permission Request
The cost of owning a dog
Owning a dog can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be aware of the costs involved. The expenses can add up quickly, even without unexpected vet bills. In the excitement of getting a new canine companion, it's easy to overlook the financial commitment. If you're seriously considering getting a dog, it's essential to sit down and create a budget. Consider your lifestyle and all the needs of your new dog.
How much does a dog cost over their lifetime?
Dogs can be surprisingly expensive, and there may be costs you haven't considered. You should expect a dog to cost at least £5,200, but depending on the breed, the lifetime cost could be a minimum of £15,700:
- Small dog breeds: At least £5,200 - £10,000
- Medium dog breeds: At least £7,500 - £11,800
- Large dog breeds: At least £6,900 - £15,700
These estimates represent the minimum needed to care for a dog and will vary based on size, breed, and lifespan. If you choose to spend more on their care, the costs could be higher. These estimates do not include vet fees for illnesses, though pet insurance is included. If your dog has an accident or develops a health issue, the costs could increase significantly. It's important to be prepared, which is why we recommend pet insurance. Purebred dogs may be at higher risk for certain health problems, potentially adding to your costs.
Getting started: the initial cost of getting a dog
When you first get a dog, you'll need to purchase several items to ensure their happiness and health. At a minimum, this includes:
- Bed
- Lead, collar, and tag (a legal requirement in the UK)
- Food and water bowls
- Brush for grooming
- Toys
- Initial course of vaccinations
- Monthly wormers (until your dog is six months old)
- Neutering
The estimated costs for these items are:
- Small dog breeds: £404
- Medium dog breeds: £484
- Large dog breeds: £511
These estimates do not include the cost of purchasing your dog. We recommend adopting from a reputable rehoming centre. Additionally, this does not include the cost of microchipping, which should be done by the breeder by 8 weeks of age. If your dog hasn't been microchipped before leaving the breeder, you'll need to factor in this cost.
Ongoing care: monthly costs of owning a dog
Each month, you should budget for various necessities, including:
- Yearly health checks and booster vaccinations
- Regular flea and worm treatments
- Insurance
- Food
- Toys
- Poo bags
The estimated minimum monthly costs are:
- Small dog: £57
- Medium dog: £70
- Large dog: £97
Take the PDSA Quiz to see if a dog is the right pet for you Choosing A Pet - PDSA
(Source - PDSA Website)
Pet Permission Request
Please complete all fields and read the guidelines and conditions set out at the top of this page.
We will return a copy to you with permission granted or we will write to you if we are not able to grant you permission for a pet at this time, with our reasons. We will give you a decision within 28 days of receiving your request.
Pet/Animals guidelines and conditions in line with our Pet Policy
All pets must not be allowed to roam in communal areas inside or outside unattended at any time. Dogs in particular should be properly trained and kept on a lead in communal areas at all times.
All mess must be cleaned up immediately, regardless if it is in your private garden or in a communal space.
You will need to get our written permission if you would like a cat flap installed, prior to installing one. Cat flaps will not be allowed on a door that opens into a communal area as these are usually fire doors.
Under the new micro chipping laws all dogs and cats must be microchipped - including kittens over 20 weeks and puppies over the age of 8 weeks. Please speak to your vet as soon as possible to avoid any waiting lists, and contact us as soon as possible to provide the microchip number.
Should we receive complaints regarding:
- you not being a responsible owner;
- the condition of your home/garden;
- your pet’s behaviour;
We will assess the complaint and may withdraw permission for you to have your pet in our property if the complaint in upheld. We will give you 7 – 10 days to find an alternative home for your pet.
If you leave your pet in the property for any length of time without arranging for it to be cared for properly, we have the authority to remove the animal from the property and pass it to be looked after by the RSPCA or similar organisation.
Permission must be sought each time you wish to add a new animal into your home.
By signing this webform, you agree to follow the guidelines and conditions of our pet policy.
