Making the decision to adopt a pet isn't just a life-changing situation for the pet, but also for you, as an owner. In order to provide your pet with the best possible experience, it's important that you be prepared – even when it comes to your finances. If you are about to adopt a new furry family member, there are a number of important costs you should be factoring into your budget ahead of time. Here are just four you don't want to overlook.

Nutritional Food

When it comes to the food you put in your body, you don't simply look for the cheapest options. While price is important, you are more concerned with getting quality, nutritional food selections. Keep the same train of thought for your pet. Given the importance of nutritional food selections, you can expect to spend somewhere between $120 and $500 a year on quality pet food. The smaller your pet, the lower end of the spectrum your cost will be on and the opposite end for a larger dog.

Chew-Toys

You might not even think chew-toys would be considered a real expense, but depending on the breed you have, you could learn otherwise. Certain breeds, including the Labrador retriever and Shetland sheepdog, seem to be on a never ending quest to chew whatever they can. If you don't have a stock of chew-toys on hand, they will seek out your shoes, furniture or whatever else they can find. Additionally, since they like to chew so much, they often go through chew-toys quickly, causing you to purchase these toys quite regularly.

Rental Pet Deposit

If you don't own your home, don't forget to factor in the rental pet deposit fee you might have to pay the property manager. This fee is generally designed to cover the cost of any upgrades or damages that need to be repaired once you move out, such as soiled carpet. Pet fees vary from a single, one-time deposit to a deposit and monthly fee. Your lease agreement can provide you with the details.

Preventive Veterinary Care

It's not only important to take your pet to the veterinarian when they are sick, but also for preventive care, such as a yearly exam. The cost of this care can vary widely depending on the size and breed of your dog and the area that you live in. However, you can expect to spend somewhere between $45 and $200 with the first year and $20 to $100 each year thereafter for an annual exam, which doesn't include the cost of any necessary treatments.

The adoption fee, at a place like Pilot Knob Animal Hospital, is only the beginning when it comes to caring for your pet. Make sure you are financially prepared to provide your pet with the most comfortable and safe home.