How Much Having a Pet Is Actually Costing You with George Kamel

[@genxretiree]

Adopted one cat back in 2009 from the county shelter for $75 and she’s been the best investment we’ve ever made.

[@1979geauxtigers]

Just spent $4000 on my baby's knee surgery. Would do it again in a heartbeat. The joy she brings to my life is more than worth it.

[@History-Podcast_and_Book_Club]

Pets increase the quality of life and give a greater overall sense of meaning. They also make you more social, increase time outdoors and exercise. These things usually mean less costs for poor health, so having pets can be seen as an investment into good health.

[@frankbatista.official]

Totally agree with you

[@Crealgood]

This is definitely an opinion. My dog gives me 0 value to life or meaning and as messed up as it sounds, I can’t wait for the day he dies. I love the dog, he is well trained, but I don’t have the will to be a dog owner any longer or ever in the future.

[@cheerfulchapters999]

​@@Crealgoodpls rehome him. Make sure he will be taken care of and loved better by his new furrever family. My heart broke when u said you can't wait for him to die.

[@nodsib]

I work a physical job outdoors, the last thing I need is to come home and walk a dog. I do love animals, but where I’m living housing is expensive and rentals are extremely hard to find, I’m still working on being able to afford my own place, and it would be a huge risk to have a pet before a home. I see it all the time with renters in this area that can’t find a place because they have pets

[@gabevilla8578]

Rachel putting dad on blast 😂😂😂 2:48

[@marilyns6043]

This is why I’m getting chickens. Purchase price for chicks in the spring is less than $5. Cost of chicken feed literally a synonym for something that’s inexpensive. They’re super comical. Have sweet personalities. And they give you amazing, fresh food! 🐓🐓🐓 Do I like dogs? Sure! That’s why getting all y’all to PAY ME to walk and sit for your dogs is one of my side hustles. I love dog owners. 🙂🐕 In fact, sitting for my daughter’s pit while she travels is a great gift. She gets to travel and I get time with my grand-dog. ♥️

[@retrofan2012]

Don't forget the other pets like fish! I am on baby step 4 and busy as a student. Having fish has been such a refreshing pet owner experience and much cheaper than dogs/cats. Plus there are usually no extra charges from apartment landlords. Enjoy the videos when you two are together. :)

[@VL20190]

I live in an apartment and under new management. The new lease strictly states no pets at all and cats/dogs $300 deposit hand $20 month

[@PickledHam]

I don't have any house hold pets but I spend about $90 /month on food to feed wild critters in my yard. I have ton of different color birds, owls, possum, groundhogs and of course ton of squirrels. expensive yes, but nice to watch.

[@renam9296]

I was super lucky and got a 3 month old purebred Labradoodle puppy for $300 at my local shelter. They are typically around 3 to 5k if you buy from a breeder because they are a super popular breed right now. Adopt don't shop guys! We love our shelter puppy, he's the best!

[@lindseye2750]

George I appreciated the honesty and I’m a pet lover too so it’s nice to hear it’s ok to dote on them if you’re a Dink debt free home, showing this to my spouse 😆

[@frankbatista.official]

I love dogs too ❤❤❤

[@lisak6321]

I found that pet insurance is good IF you have a puppy. I rescue senior dogs and all of the plans I looked at declined preexisting conditions and any conditions that are related or caused by the preexisting condition. I could get additional coverage if I paid for it but it covered very little. You also have to pay everything up front and submit the claims to the insurance company who will determine if the services are covered and no, they do not cover annual exams and vaccinations. I agree with Dave, create a sinking fund for medical and contribute to it regularly.

[@carollueckfeld1178]

Adopt don't shop, I have a pug that I adopted from a rescue. She is my side kick and I love her.

[@777RL]

You two make a good duo!

[@violetgreen121]

Don't throw your old holey socks away! Stuff an old sock with other old socks and tie a knot at the end. We use these as tug toys and our German Shepherds love them! Braided old t-shirts or rags also work. For food, save your carrot peelings, asparagus trimmings, beet ends, small amounts of broccoli stalks, cauliflower leaves, etc. and lightly steam them. Mix them with your dog's food for extra vitamins and bulk. no garlic and onions, though. check the internet for safety guidelines.

[@therelaxationstation5258]

Totally worth it ! Kids are soooooo much more expensive.

[@dominiquetheeasyminimalist]

I have a beagle and an Italian greyhound. I budget $350 monthly average, including dog sitting when I travel, grooming , food, and provision for vet bills. If people did the math, many would not have a pet 🤷‍♀️

[@therussells8906]

Just put my dog down after 15.5 years. Miss her like crazy but the heartache and expense was way more than we anticipated. The last 2 years probably cost us 3 + grand a year!

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

Having pets have enriched my life. Minimal cost makes up for having them. 2 adopted cats & the pet rooster 🐓..

[@rickgonzalez1218]

Deb here. We have owned 6 pets (3 dogs and 3 cats) and paid for the one dog from a breeder. The other dogs came from a shelter with minimal fees. All of the cats were free. Never was a cat owner until the dog found a cat under our deck with kittens. Kept the momma cat and she was the best cat. Because she was so good we got another cat while living in Italy. The other dogs and cat we inherited when my Mom passed away. Loved all of them. We are down to the last cat and won't get another pet until we are done traveling. Haven't found a good boarding place for a cat so my father in law watches him while we travel. Unless if it is for a few days then the cat can stay home alone with enough food and water with additional litter boxes.

[@sarahpleasant-nowowiejski5971]

This is such a good topic!! We are on Baby Step 2 and our 7 year old really wants a dog. I told her when we were debt-free we would get her a dog and I told her about how much a dog costs to take care of monthly. Since I stay home, the cost of pet sitting would be minimal, but the food, grooming, clothes, and accessories are definitely a price to consider.

[@brittanym58]

Grooming is outrageous. Our prices locally average $15 for a nail trim and $60 for bath and deshedding. Don't forget the tip!

[@beckymigdal3140]

I say get a pet as it will teach your child responsible

[@EFN86]

I had a dog that would scream like that during nail trims. I never trimmed them myself again. I lived in an apartment and I didn't want my neighbors thinking I was murdering people in my home.

[@marcelladominguez8787]

I don’t know how much I have spent on my dog but honestly I don’t care. And now that he’s a senior the costs have gone up- surgery to remove a large growth on his eye then a eye specialist when there were issues after that surgery; surgery to remove a fatty tumor on his neck close to vein and ear infection all in the past three- five years. He was a rescue and I have been so blessed to have him in my life. He is a mixed terrier and the sweetest and smartest lil boy. Every dollar spent on him is worth it for all the unconditional love and companionship. Good tips.

[@marcelladominguez8787]

@ewereonwuemenstanley reported as scam

[@anhbarker]

I took my Lab and cat to the vet this month. I also take my Lab to daycare 1-2 days a week. Add in food for the month, our pet budget for this month is $400. Worth every penny!!

[@cynthialarrison9150]

Thank you for confirming what I always believed that pet insurance it's not worth it

[@joannafoster3423]

Thanks for speaking on pet insurance. We've been tossing it around.

[@lylagray9669]

So many pure bred dogs at shelters. Both of ours were $75 and they were up to date on their shots and microchipped. Came with toys, treats, crate and bed.

[@K.elyse.]

Pet insurance through embrace was the best decision for us! Our puppy broke her knee and required two surgeries totaling 15k! Since we had 90% coverage we only had to pay 1.5k for everything. It literally paid for itself for a long long time. You never know with dogs and the surgeries are sooo pricey

[@FioNensa26]

Always Great to See George

[@Sharon-nu7qy]

Great show. Thanks for sharing all your advice and tips.

[@45jessiemad]

I'm a dog person. 🐕 I will say we've probably spent about $6,000 on our black lab Costly. Yes that's her name! And she lives up to it! We've considered changing it to money maker instead. We adopted her and she had heart worms, that's $1,500, then another $500 or so in check ups, and last year her CL tore and that was a $4,000 surgery. She's only 8 years old and we love her! We also have a pug named gus who's the same age, and he's so low maintenance. I will always have a dog!! Great episode

[@kimsinthe80s]

Make sure to do your research about the lifespan of your chosen pet, but research can be wrong. My now husband decided to adopt his grandma's doxson terrier against my wishes because her new partner didn't like him. For the record, I don't like him either and almost 8 years later (we are his third owner and he is approximately 20-23 years old) we are STILL caring for him. We both thought he would be dead by now. We've spent over $5,000 in the past 5 years on his food, teeth removals, pet insurance and dental cleanings. Totally worth the cost IF you love your pet.

[@beabea0391]

I have three cats and a dog and I spend about $120/month on food and litter. Plus kitty insulin every 3 months which is $120 and a yearly exam with vaccines which runs around $150 each. I worked in shelter medicine for a decade so I can do any grooming and basic vet care at home. I worked with plenty of people who have lots of pets. It’s as expensive or cheap as you want it to be.

[@keithacampbell73]

Your comment makes more sense, I buy from chewy for my cat. Every three months auto delivered. Only pay for insurance every month and when I use it I get back 90%.

[@mariacorretge6615]

I have the same dog as Rachel! A working cocker Spaniel. They're absolutely mental. I now completely feel as if Rachel and I are sisters.

[@awiselittlehomestead777]

We spend on average $30-$50 per month on our cat, house rabbit and 21 chickens. They are well fed and well taken care of.

[@90Stay]

Such a great episode! Was wondering if the insurance was worth it or not and the about subscribe and save on food . You are both sound like great responsible pet owners! We love our mini Aussie ❤

[@jillgott6567]

I have 3 cats 1 because a friend died and I would not put her in a shelter so she came home with me. They are a goid investment of money, and love. I think pets make a house a home

[@judya8044]

I pay $1200/month for acupuncture for my loving little girl dog. She is totally worth it. I just cut something else

[@kleindropper]

I have a one year old gsd. He has been to the vet four times in that timeframe for minor issues while I haven't been to a doctor in years.

[@ColleenJoudrey]

I adopted a cat from a shelter when I was 17 y/o. She had colitis so she cost me about $3k/year all together. Then when she turned 12, she was diagnosed with lung cancer and her chemo was $3k on top of the regular costs. She passed a few years ago but I've held out on getting another pet because I'm not sure I have the capacity or finances to take on another dependent quite yet.

[@jillg7018]

Dog sitting is my side hustle! I'm allergic now apparently but I love doggies. 😁 Debt free too but need the extra $ for that 40% rent increase. 😭

[@isabellaross1472]

I’m a vet tech, and I can say the vets in your life are not rolling in money. HOWEVER French bulldogs will forever keep vet clinics in business 😂.The have horrible allergies, breathing issues, bad backs. If you are looking for a “budget friendly” pet, find your self a good mutt🎉

[@cynthialarrison9150]

Cost for rescues in are area are expensive too

[@judya8044]

RESCUE. RESCUE. RESCUE.

[@rebeccaross1715]

Adopt, don’t shop!!! 25% of dogs or cats in shelters are purebred. Do your research!!! Volunteer at a shelter. Get them spayed or neutered, and don’t breed them. Don’t go for one particular breed, mutts are awesome and healthier!!!

[@joannafoster3423]

Unfortunately, the shelters in our bigger city are just full of pits and pit mixes. Not interested with a house full of kids.

[@lieselnobles]

no judging here, George! We budget $800/mth for our 2 German Shepherds. They are not cheap but we love them!

[@yoyoma27payer]

I had a dog breeder say $450 deposit I said I’ll drive and pay full price they said they needed the deposit before seeing the dogs I said no thank you

[@kendrarhodes6425]

I’m glad y’all made this video. Planning on getting a dog next year and I’ve been researching costs and pet insurance just so I can be prepared. So this was perfect timing.

[@thebirdhouse42]

French Bulldogs do shed. A lot!

[@rizkarinaangrenani2566]

People: Having a pet is expensive Also people: You need to have a kid 😅

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

Our budget for our dog is $275.00 a month - yes, she is expensive. But we do not buy Starbucks coffee, we do not drive new vehicles (if fact we only have one 2013 Subaru) we don't take vacations, we don't eat out, I use a $24.00 a month flip phone (as opposed to a Smart Phone) and we do not have cable TV. Our ONE SPLURGE is our rescue dog (She cost less than $200.00 from the Humane Society). Ginger Rogers gets me out every single day to walk, (this keep my heart healthy I lost 15 pounds after rescuing her and she is my emotional support dog which saves me a ton of cash on psychologist fees and pharmaceutical drugs) We use a borrowed crate and bed and she chews on frozen beef bones and I home cook her food. I brush her teeth every day and clip her nails ourself to save on vet cleaning fees and every dog we have had has not had to have any surgery until the day she went over the rainbow bridge. I am home with her 24/7 so she does not go to daycare I take care of her myself. She is a Lab/Rescue and does not need grooming. She is worth every dollar spent.

[@sXePunkV2]

DINK, Baby Step 4,5 & 6 and 2 kittens. I absolutely dote on them ❤️

[@czshadow3565]

Without even watching the video, people with pets live longer, are happier, healthier, and overall enjoy a better quality of life. All proven facts. I might watch it later, but a pet doesn't cost me because I am benefitting so much.

[@truthseeker6370]

I've had dogs/cats my whole life. I've had 2 purebred pedigreed dogs and a lot of "Heinz 57" mutts. I will Wholeheartedly say that the mixed breed dogs have been the very best pets by far! I have always spayed/neutered my pets and kept them current on vaccinations. The cost of pet food is absolutely ridiculous! After my big dog Baxter passed, I was grief stricken and Not looking for another pet At All. But somehow my adult cat found me. I named her Grace 😊 Cats are tricky and I would not normally take in an adult again after previous experience. She has lived up to her name and is a great kitty 😊 Now I don't/never have gone overboard on pet toys and have Never bought pet clothing. Animals don't want to be dressed in clothing of any sort. My pet costs include quality food, litter box care, Greenies treats and vet appointments. I take her bi-monthly to have her nails cut down. She's still expensive to own even without all the foo-foo

[@lindseye2750]

No! Do not go cheap on the breeder, don’t do it. Our “chihuahua “ is well I have no idea but I do know he’s not a chihuahua so instead of small and none shedding he’s the worst shedder and Huge! Yes I love him and he’s spoiled but still I share to not go cheap if using a breeder, it’ll end up being a bad situation you’re helping or a mixed breed surprise dog. Also TIP- if you get paid 26 times a year but budget 24 you could set aside one of the extra paychecks as the sinking funds for the year, that’s what I do and it helps out monthly too.

[@Lesh004]

We have two boxers, it’s $120 a month just for food and about $40 a month for preventative medication. That’s not including the about $300 a yearly exam/shots per dog. We like to buy chicken jerky treats at $35 a bag that lasts about 3 months. So about $2,660 a year….in addition to the $400 and $700 paid to buy them. And I think it was about $400 to neuter our oldest 4 years ago. And the youngest will be neutered next year. 😬 We get lucky and our dogs wear their nails down on our paver patio. So we don’t have to clip their nails. And my in-laws don’t mind watching them when we need it. Both our boxers sleep in our king size bed with us. 😂 One is 75lbs and the other is 50lbs and only a year old.

[@stephanieharries7746]

😊 one thing I like to say on behalf of pansies yes they eat food but so do humans and also you know how to have a pet that's what I meant to say and also they provide a lot and you know they don't wear clothing and there's a lot of ways you can save I don't think they need to Target vets and ask vets to lower their cost there's a vet in you know rather than talk about the pets talk about the vet cost because there's ways that you can say we get one rabies shot for they get their rabies one time in their lifetime and that's it and that's the only shot they ever received unless they're puppies and they need those puppy shots but you know basically I think they need to Target the vet cost and asked to lower their costs as much as possible because we've had a great bed and still do and he is incredible he doesn't charge for hardly anything but he still makes a lot of money because people flock back to him because they know how good he is❤😊😊😊😊😊

[@JulsMWK1995]

George, I know you aren’t a fan of pet insurance but I opted for a $22 premium through my employer. It was worth it. My 2 1/2 dog got sick with Blastomycisis. He is so very sick. I live in WI and it’s something in soil here and other midwest that dogs inhale and get really sick. I never heard of it before. My dog has been in the animal hospital three nights now. If we took him home he’d die but he’s improving at the hospital. It’s been like 7k so far. My insurance has $250 deductible and then 50% reimbursement. We have no debt, and an emergency savings started but not fully funded yet. Feels like a set back to pay for this but are heart is so invested. Our dog is improving so we hope to bring home soon. I don’t regret our pet insurance. I must say, finances feel like a candy land game. We got goals, we are climbing and then boom, slide down the slide. 🛝 Disappointing that we had this expense but we got to get back to work climbing back up.

[@beckymigdal3140]

My dogs kept me going during the darkest time of my life. I would spend any amount for my dogs as long as it improves their lives.

[@Pamela-tw5nr]

I can relate to George on the nail trimming. Hate it!

[@mariorta5017]

I have 9 dogs, 3 cats and around 40 chickens. Plus the stray cats that come home every night for dinner. Their budget is $500 total each month for food. We have an emergency fund for them. I cut their nails, do their hair and bath. Only one of my dogs like playing with toys and one of my cats plays fetch. So, I don't spend much on toys. All my animals are rescued, so there was not charge for them. 😅

[@melissasprayberry5047]

Vet care for us is WAY more than dog sitting. The MINIMUM is 200 we have spent when leaving the vet . It’s unbelievable how expensive it is .

[@melissasprayberry5047]

This video answered my question I ask on your previous video about “does animal care go in grocery fund?” 😀😀

[@MR3DDev]

Why is having a pet so expensive in the US? I've never seen these numbers in other countries. Dogs eats leftovers and just hang out in the patio. Health care for pets is nuts.

[@sXePunkV2]

You don't take your pets to vets? Where do you live? (no judgement, just curious)

[@MR3DDev]

@@sXePunkV2 We did but only for vaccine and if they had any wounds, nothing insane like in the US where they do surgery and chemo

[@1991macie]

People replace kids for dogs. Instead of larger families people would rather have pets.

[@VL20190]

Best investment I made lol I just feed my street cats/dogs

[@kleindropper]

Vet, food, boarding, dog walkers, toys, treats.

[@1991macie]

Wouldn't might have a dog and/or cat, but I struggle with housework with 3 kids. Don't need to throw a dog or cat in the mix.

[@azerlynno]

I love my cat but now with a one year old my hands are full! I’m definitely glad cats cost less than dogs though. She is long hair so I groom her myself with clippers.

[@samanthadugan7955]

I didn’t realize that George had frenchies! I’ve got two myself. I’m curious what George gets for food!

[@brittanym58]

Our large dog died unexpectedly when her stomach flipped one day. Surgery was 6k and a 50/50 chance. Heartbreaking.

[@karnag28]

I agree, George! Dogs are waaayyyyy more attractive than people!!!

[@sabrinab9991]

No amount is too much. They are family members just as much as human children. Our Shih Tzu had back knees surgery $5000.00.

[@CheatingZubat]

And they are worth every penny; I could never put a price on the love me and my dog have.

[@caitlinfairlee608]

With two dogs, a horse, and a saltwater reef aquarium - let’s just say my animal costs line item is rather large in my budget…. But for us, we’d rather sacrifice vacations and other luxuries to have the animals. As Christine from Frugal Fit Mom once said “you can have what you want but you can’t have EVERYTHING you want”

[@edithmonroy1126]

Do you recommend pet insurance if you have a pet before you knew about Dave Ramsey's baby steps?

[@jackiem9460]

Cat lover here...If you don't like cats you probably haven't met the right one yet.

[@therelaxationstation5258]

Pets are Family.

[@stacycreates24]

They were handing out puppies at Samsclub yesterday, they weren’t vaccinated so that’s an extra cost.

[@veronicabishop9466]

This episode was a episode for smart money happy hour

[@KandyArmyWife]

Here in louisville he said!! Ur filming in louisville?

[@AnitaAlibi]

Aw I wanna meet this French Bull Dog!!!

[@StephanieRamirezlove]

George - I have a frenchie I totally understand!! lol

[@nenacrandall3598]

If one is deciding whether/not to have a pet based upon a dollar amount one does not deserve to have a pet. An animal gives one unconditional love…an animal is not an inanimate object. My advice to those who approach having with this mindset - under no circumstance should you buy/have a pet.

[@meganwilson1945]

Not all pet insurance is created equal. At least research. Trupanion is a great one.

[@keithacampbell73]

Trupanion is probably good for dogs, not so good for some cats. Scottish folds for one.

[@jaymick6550]

Rachel .. Love ya, girl! But, I think you're developing Turrets! I was tempted to re-watch the entire video to see how many times you said "I'm gonna be honest here".

[@adrian3747_]

Just paid $1031 vet bills for my pug. That’s to put him under general anesthesia to thoroughly clean his infected ear and hot spots on the head. 😭

[@12hunter100]

It cost me a big 1k to get my dogs teeth cleaned ,teeth pulled plus meds she's 10 years old , it cost only $13 a month to feed she's 23 lbs husky mix rat terrier.

[@Goldenbudgetsavings2]

You guys should check into the farmers dog

[@pfiss1089]

We have 2 large(ish) dogs and upgraded to a king size bed to give them more room, lol! And yes, they do sleep between us too! No criticism from here George! :)

[@DannyNomad]

So George, should I sell my pet horse?

[@45jessiemad]

If the horse is worth more than you are, yes! 😂😂

[@bmuntz911]

Nope.... and every horse needs a horsey friend....horses are great motivation to get a great paying job!!!!

[@terryclouse3340]

I have a dog that sleeps in my bed every night

[@christinehopping]

Live alone. No pets. I have 2 bird feeders, and when I am home from work, I watch the birds from my windows or when I am gardening outside. I don't like the smell of pets or animals inside the house, and not a fan of pet confinement.

[@thebestthingthatneverhappe6729]

if i fed my 2 dogs raw food 2 meals daily I'd spend about $15/day. That's nearly $5500 per year lol

[@Secz12341]

Tbh for me i no my boi cost money but idc he give me more then wat money can buy tbh

[@CLVRTHG]

I have a Great Dane I wish $65 for food lasted me a month 😂

[@bryan_witha_whyy]

Pets are more expensive than cigarettes IF you’re a responsible owner.

[@unnamedchannel1237]

5 cats $15 a week each , but what ya gana do when they turn up at your door and make them self at home

[@katherinesmith235]

$126 a month is nothing

[@katherinesmith235]

I would spend 20, 000 on my dog's vet if necessary. Thats why I have pet insurance.

[@sissiemay9603]

One comment. I love my kitties.

[@darkforcesjedi]

I have 4 huskies. Someone help me 😱

[@michealferrell1677]

It’s too late , I want to get rid of them but I’m stuck with them !!!!

[@adrian3747_]

WHY

[@michealferrell1677]

@@adrian3747_ well ! I found out just how attached I was when in November one ov them died very unexpectedly and tragically. I was depressed for ……………well I’m still not over it .

[@lauragreene9669]

Not impressed with the automatic reply-so much of this contradicts earlier content.

[@melissasprayberry5047]

Definitely adopt !! Poor sweet dogs are euthanized every single day at shelters at no fault of their own, while breeders are making lots of money. That’s just wrong….

[@lindsaysimplified]

It’s not always easy to adopt. Where we lived the shelter was 95% pit bull and no apartments would allow them. Plus they had a rule that you weren’t allowed to adopt if you had kids younger than 12 in the house. I assume liability issues. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@melissasprayberry5047]

@@lindsaysimplified all pit bulls automatically get put down in shelters here😪 so think it’s best to adopt over buying from a breeder anytime it’s possible. Too many shelter dogs die. Surely there is one dog that’s not a pit, but I’d not ppl ( who infuriate me) are always giving dogs away on social media , etc “free to good homes” you could look for one of those. Ppl who abuse animals look for those ads and so do dog fighters who come and get them acting like a good “pet owner” but take them and use them for dog fighting “bait”! It’s horrible , so I always say they is always a dog in need of a good home, not a “breed”…. These babies die everyday …

[@jdrankwalter]

I now know George doesn't ever train his dogs because trimming nails never got fixed.