Call us at: 239-939-3235.
Click here for our address and a map of our location.
Due to various state regulations and registration requirements concerning the dissemination of information regarding investment products and services, we are currently required to limit access of the following pages to individuals residing in states where we are currently registered. Investments products and services available only to residents of Florida or if you are not a Florida resident we will take the necessary action to comply with the security laws of your state.
Fee-based advisory services are offered through Haisman Wealth Management, Inc., a registered investment advisor. Haisman Wealth Management, Inc. only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or notice filed, or excluded or exempted from registration requirements.
Considering a Pet? – A Lot to Think About
Some of the most heartbreaking news reports out of the latest recession involved the number of pets being left at animal shelters by owners who could no longer afford to keep them. If you’ve considered giving a rescue or a pedigree a home, think first about all of the aspects of owning and giving them proper care.
While bringing home a pet should first and foremost be about love and money, your time is an increasingly important consideration. In addition, a surprising number of things can add to the cost. Here are some important issues to consider before you bring home a pet:
Are you allergic? Wait – what do watery eyes have to do with affording Fido? Plenty. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are almost 10 million pet owners who have some sort of allergy to their pets. Pets are in 70 percent of U.S. households. Check to see if you or your spouse might be allergic to your chosen animal before you bring him home, or at least check your healthcare policy for coverage for allergy shots or other medications that can help you co-exist.
Make sure your homeowners or rental policy allows pets: There are some insurers who might reject you or charge you considerably more for coverage if you own certain large-breed dogs. Check your coverage before you get the pet.
Research breed health: If a pet is a single or dominant breed, it makes sense to research particular health issues specific to the breed to avoid future costly care.
Watch that grocery bill: Depending on the pet and your desire to give them only the best, an annual pet food bill can cost between $150 to $400. Confirm with your vet whether you’re giving your pet the right amount of food and at the right time.
Doctor, doctor: Vet bills can be the scariest financial aspect of pet ownership, and dealing with them spurs the most debate. In major metro areas, annual vet bills can average $100 to $300 just for the basics, which include an annual vaccination and checkup, no medication. For more serious matters such as cancers, joint and bone problems, bills easily run into the thousands. There are pet insurance companies, but financial experts argue whether premiums justify the benefits.
When looks are everything: Grooming is an important function for all pets. Claws need to be cut so that overgrown or matted hair doesn’t get the chance to cause skin or infestation problems. Talk with your vet first about what he or she believes is a proper grooming regimen for your pet, and shop for a groomer based on experience and familiarity with your pet’s breed. Grooming rates vary by community and size of the pet, with per-visit rates ranging from $20 to $100.
Daycare, pet-sitting and lodging: Many people fear taking pets on cross-country trips in cars and planes. That’s why daycare and lodging services are so popular, but not exactly cheap. Depending on the community, daily dog-walking services can cost $20 and up, overnight kennel fees may go well over $30, and pet-sitting services can cost $50 a day or more. It’s always best to get references from local veterinary clinics and fellow pet owners you trust.
Back to the top