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| Edited By: Yoshita Rao |Source: DNA |Updated: Jul 16, 2018, 12:02 PM IST
The joys of parenting a new puppy, kitten or bunny often overshadows the responsibility that comes due. Did you know it might be cheaper to buy a new car or have a fancy Indian wedding than to own a dog? Of course, a car wouldn't play fetch or greet you lovingly as you walk through the door or even be a friendly companion for nearly 14 years.
Motoring journalist and full time father to four cats and a golden retriever, Tushar Burman stresses on sporadic costs including potential upholstery replacements that may come with aggressive behaviour during the pets' oestrus cycles and pent up energy of unneutered pets. “Outdoor cats tend to get into more trouble than indoor ones," Burman states.
Yet another unanticipated cost comes with soaring Indian summers. Veterinarians stress on the added need for air cooling for not only pedigree pets but also street dogs and cats.
A full commitment to pets would mean setting aside an insurance kitty. Lack of such funds leads to hundreds being abandoned every year. "Skin-related issues are very common with dogs in India aside from parasitic and fungal infections," says Dr Vinherkar, Master of Veterinary Science, who adds, "Nearly 70 per cent of problems are dermatological." Around 50 per cent puppies face digestion issues while older ones face joint problems, digestive and major organ failures, he lists. Cats, on the other hand, are most susceptible to feline rabies and viral infections.
Food bills alone could amount to a gargantuan sum of money in a dog's life. But a few Indians being predominantly vegetarian make their dogs follow the same dietary habits. Seeing this increasing trend vets caution that while a few 'vegetarian' dogs may be able to survive on the plain ol' dal and rice, others may run up the medical expenses. And while processed dog foods (also available in vegetarian options) are cheaper, experts say they need to be fed in moderation to avoid spending on special dietary restrictions and medication of obese dogs. There are also the select few who believe in giving their dogs Bhagwan ka prasad (food offered to God) along with pizza, burgers and chocolates, which are absolute no-nos!
When calculated, cat owners may shell out much less than dog owners. However, cats can be a bit fussy when it comes to food as they aren't big on change. "My cats will not eat cheaper options like cooked fish and meat. So to keep costs low in the long term, get them used to nutritious and cheap foods from the start," says Burman, adding that even kitty litter is an expensive affair.
Cat trees are another must-have to keep claw marks away from furniture. "Cats like to scratch, so if you don't give them enough distraction or engagement they are going to scratch anything soft including your skin," Burman laughs. He also insists that cat trees act as safe spots for them. And for those who still believe it's a 'luxury', Burman says, "Get ready to buy a lot of pillow covers because you're going to lose them."
Owning turtles that are protected by the Wildlife Protection Act (1972), is now a recurring trend. A few may fancy the Red Eared Slider or the Singaporean turtles, who are believed to be the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Though the initial investment for turtles is low, their upkeep is taxing. "A turtle may cost you just Rs 200 but keeping them in small vessels without any sunlight would lead to metabolic bone disorders," Dr Vinherkar laments, who is known for his works in turtle conservation. Costs to consider for these pets would then include artificial sunlight for their specially designed habitats that need both dry land and water areas.
So the popular belief of "I love animals" will not cut it. Endangering animal lives should be as punishable an offence as abandonment or unsuitable care. And those seeking to make pets a part of the family should not only cough up the dough but also made wary of an underlying condition your furry friends demand – you need to do your homework before buying any pets.
