For the longest time, your kids have been asking you to get them a pet. Giving in to their demands isn’t the worst thing that you could do. Having a dog or cat can teach them a good lesson in responsibility.
The problem is that you don’t have a lot of cash in the bank to buy a furry friend for your children. We’re here to tell you not to sweat it.
There are cheap pets you can pick up that won’t force you to empty out your wallet. Check out this guide for a list of inexpensive companions that your kids will love.
1. Goldfish
Your basic breed of goldfish will only run you about 15 dollars. Of course, this is without premium aquariums, filters, and other essentials. This makes them one of the most affordable pets that you can get.
Many parents get a goldfish for their children to teach them about the cycle of life and death. The truth is, though, these little pet fish can live for 20 years or more if you take care of them.
It doesn’t take much maintenance to keep them happy, and they’re smart. You can teach them tricks, and after a while, they will recognize you when you come over to feed them.
2. Guinea Pigs
If you’re looking for something a little furrier for your kids to love, a guinea pig is a good go-to. If you want to get an exotic breed, it will cost you 120 dollars to buy a pet.
It may sound expensive, but you’ll spend twice this much to buy a dog from a breeder. If you want to get your run-of-the-mill guinea pig from a pet store, you’ll pay 20-40 dollars.
These affordable pets don’t take a large time commitment considering their average lifespan is only seven years or so. They’re not the best option if your child is of preschool age.
They’re a little fragile, so a younger kid may hurt the guinea pig if they play too rough. Another thing to keep in mind is that guinea pigs are much happier if they have another furry companion with them. You may want to buy more than one.
3. Leopard Gecko
For those who like reptiles, leopard geckos are the most inexpensive option. You can buy one for 20 dollars, and they’re easy to take care of.
Leopard geckos are nocturnal creatures, so they’re more active during the night. Most reptiles require a UV lightbulb to stay comfortable.
Leopard geckos don’t. You may want to invest in a heating pad depending on what the temperature is like in your home. That’s about it.
Cheap Pets That Won’t Break Your Bank
Do you want to pick up a furry (or scaly) friend for your child to love? The cost to buy a pet can make picking one up difficult on the wallet. The good news is that there are cheap pets available. Goldfish and guinea pigs aren’t only inexpensive, but they’re also easy to take care of. To learn more about animal ownership, visit the Pets section of our blog.
