Animal house

Dogs

Average cost The $200 fee ($400 for a purebred with papers) for adopting a pup from Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation covers the cost of spaying/neutering and microchipping. After that, the combination of food, a bed, toys, vet checkups and recommended preventative medications will cost between $500 and $1,000 per year. Tack on anywhere from $25 to $50 a day for boarding and $10 per dog walk when you need assistance during the work week or vacation time, and you’ll get an idea of your expenses.
Quality time CCRF employee Amy Anderson suggests you shouldn’t leave a puppy alone for more than four hours. As for adult dogs, some can manage to stay in the house or crated for eight, but most dogs would opt for at least one walk midday plus brisk walking, playing fetch or running in the morning and at night for a total of a few hours of daily exercise.
Cleaning Anderson says dogs with short hair require a quick once-a-week bath and brush-through, while dogs with long hair will need daily grooming to prevent matting and excess griminess.
Space matters Smaller urban spaces like one-bedroom apartments accommodate under-40-pounders; if you’re looking at a midsize or large dog such as a Lab or Great Dane, Anderson suggests you should live in at least a sizable two- or three-bedroom apartment, if not a full house.
Pet-proof Most important, set ground rules such as whether the dog can hop on the couch before your new furry friend moves in. Anderson likens bringing a dog into the house to bringing home a toddler. Take care of anything that will pose a danger (cover electrical cords and outlets), and hide anything valuable that a wagging tail might knock over.
Resources Chicago Canine Rescue (2227 W Belmont Ave, 773-697-8848); PAWS Chicago (1997 N Clybourn Ave, 773-935-7297).

NEXT>>

Dogs | Cats | Fish | House rabbit