Can I afford a puppy ? Upfront costs help please

foreign_correspondent

I am glad that you are not rushing into getting a dog, but I am sure you will make a great dog owner when you are ready and have had chance to consider all the options.

I am so glad you have decided to have a look at rescue dogs - it may be worth checking out a few locally to see which will rehome (the right dog) to a family with young children. Dog pages is useful for getting an overview, there is also a 'homes offered' section, where you cn post a wanted ad for a suitable rescue dog or pup...

These guys are also local (ish) to you (I think!) - but I have no experience of any of them, as I am not from your neck of the woods!
http://www.care-uk.com/
http://www.animalsindistress.uk.com/
http://www.animalsanctuaryuk.com/
http://www.lastchanceanimalrescue.co.uk/ (they have a couple of lovely pups in - might be best not to look if you arent ready yet! lol!)

Rowan9

If you are in Norfolk, there is Faith (hhmmm...Norwich or \North Norfolk - can't remember) and Meadow Green just south of Norwich.

foreign_correspondent

sorry I am a plonker - for some reason I got confused when posting my last message, and half way through decided I thought you said you lived in Devon!! lol, my geography is rubbish!!

Rosie75

I have saved loads of money since my dog came along. Nice clothes and holidays abroad are now out of the question, and going out happens much more rarely. I think people underestimate the moneysaving potential of a dog.;)

Jellicat

Always expect the worst when it comes to paying for dogs...unnecessary vets bills almost always crop up. Its worth putting away a "kitty" for emergency funding as insurance wont cover everything with regards to the dog.

Personally I'd go for a straight springer over a collie cross...they are both such smart dogs, springers are so hyper too. Sprockers are great dogs too (springerXcockers), but again dont pay over the odds because of the hybrid dog craze.

sammy_kaye18

Rosie75 wrote: »

I think people underestimate the moneysaving potential of a dog.;)

I agree - no holidays, no unneccessary clothign purchases, no excess chocolates, no treats for me.

The dog however just has to have a jumper because hes cold! snuggeld in a double duvet all to himself, fed a nice cutchy meal and taken on leisurely bimbles through the hedgerow every day, not to mention his brithday and christmas presents! - why cant i ge a duvet to myself , or peace or a meal made or a gift that wasnt ment as a 'well you'll liek it but i can use it more' gift! !! guess what im being reincarnated as! :rolleyes: