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My Beagle Ate My Paycheck

Dog ownership turned out a lot pricier than writer bargained for

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Jul 25, 2008 9:29 AM CDT

(Newser) – At first, $150 for a beagle puppy and $20 a week for food sounded like a good deal, but it didn't take long to realize dogs are "deceptively expensive," Neal Templin writes in the Wall Street Journal. Vet bills soon added up to thousands after a mystery illness and a car bump—enough to feed the pooch for several lifetimes.

"Dogs bleed us through veterinarian costs, boarding costs and the damage they do to our homes and yards," writes Templin, whose soft spot for pooches hasn't stopped him from getting two more. "It's too often the same story. Dog eats something it shouldn't. Dog gets sick. Dog goes to vet. Vet keeps dog for observation or to run tests. Owner eventually pays $500 to vet and takes dog home. Dog gets better on its own."

Dogs are 'deceptively expensive.' This file photo shows Uno the beagle, winner of Best in Show at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow)

Bubba. ((c) SoundAndFury)

Dogs are 'deceptively expensive.' This file photo shows Uno the beagle, winner of Best in Show at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, file)

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My Beagle Ate My Paycheck

Dog ownership turned out a lot pricier than writer bargained for

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Pet Rescue Groups Need to Ease Up on Adoption Rules

Over-the-top standards scare away would-be owners: Emily Yoffe

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Welsh corgi appears at hotel 4 days after owner is killed

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Dog slips down sheer cliff chasing bottle, owner goes after her

Cat With 26 Toes Helps Save Shelter

Daniel's odd feet has brought in $50,000 and counting

Pygmy Elephant Fatally Gores Borneo Tourist

Aussie veterinarian may have startled animal, rangers say

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My Beagle Ate My Paycheck

Dog ownership turned out a lot pricier than writer bargained for

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

pets • veterinarian • beagle • dog

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Pet Rescue Groups Need to Ease Up on Adoption Rules

Over-the-top standards scare away would-be owners: Emily Yoffe

Avalanche Dog Turns Up Alive

Welsh corgi appears at hotel 4 days after owner is killed

Dog, Hiker in Dramatic Cliff Rescue

Dog slips down sheer cliff chasing bottle, owner goes after her

Cat With 26 Toes Helps Save Shelter

Daniel's odd feet has brought in $50,000 and counting

Pygmy Elephant Fatally Gores Borneo Tourist

Aussie veterinarian may have startled animal, rangers say

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

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More News

What is Newser?