By Dawn Papandrea

Dawn Papandrea is a freelance writer, blogger, and editor specializing in personal finance, parenting, women’s lifestyle & more. Dawn blogs via Contently.com.

Whether you get all gushy walking past the adorable pugs in the pet store or a neighbor’s cat just had a litter and she’s offering you a cuddly kitten, before you follow your heart to buy or adopt a pet, stop and think. Ask yourself, are you ready for the financial commitment of a furry friend? Here are a few of the factors you’ll need to consider before becoming a pet owner…

Are you out of your home a lot? If so, you’ll need to think about the costs of dog walkers, kennel services, or other pet daycare needs. If your pet will be alone all day, be prepared to set up an area for it to roam freely, and expect some clean up costs, too. Cats may scratch up furniture, for instance, while dogs may have accidents. It might also become necessary for training or obedience classes, all of which can add up quickly. And, if you’re a renter, be sure to find out how your landlord feels about bringing a pet into your apartment. Sometimes, it could mean a small increase in rent or a deposit in case of any damages.

What will health costs be? If you plan to be a responsible pet owner, you’ll need to pay for spaying/neutering, vet visits, vaccinations, grooming, supplies, medicines, special foods, and more. Take a moment to do some research into the breed you’re considering, too. For instance, cocker spaniels are prone to ear infections, while English bulldogs often have eye problems. In cases of “designer” pooches, it might even make financial sense to take out a pet insurance policy.

Size matters. It might be a no-brainer that larger animals will require more food, resulting in higher grocery bills. But don’t forget that they might also cost more to groom as well. Finding a place to board them can become a challenge, too, since they’ll need more room. Preventative care at the vet’s office like heart worm and flea control could be more costly as well.

Beyond dogs and cats, the ASPCA has an excellent chart (http://www.aspca.org/adoption/pet-care-costs.aspx) that breaks down yearly expenses for all types of pets from birds to rabbits to guinea pigs. This is helpful when considering the type of pet that you can afford.

Once you bring a pet into your life, you’ll want to offer it the love and care it deserves. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you have the means to do so.