Most Americans own a pet. How much do you think they spend annually? 

Answer: Around $3,120 ($260 per month)

Questions: 

• Do you have a pet currently? Have you ever had a pet?
• What do you think are the biggest expenses when it comes to having a pet? 
• Would you ever consider buying pet insurance to help cover potential vet expenses for a pet?

Click here for the ready-to-go slides for this Question of the Day that you can use in your classroom.

Behind the numbers (Rover.com): 

"According to the report, annual costs for dog essentials can range from $1,000 to $5,225 a year with a median monthly cost of $260, an increase of $100 on average from 2023. The increase can likely be attributed to the rising prices of pet food, with some dog food brands costing up to 80% more than last year while cat food can cost up to 130% more. The majority (61%) of pet parents report continued increases in pet-related costs over the last 12 months, though this is down from 84% when asked the same question in March 2023."

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For more budgeting activities, check out the NGPF Budgeting unit page!

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About the Author

Dave Martin

Dave joins NGPF with 15 years of teaching experience in math and computer science. After joining the New York City Teaching Fellows program and earning a Master's degree in Education from Pace University, his teaching career has taken him to New York, New Jersey and a summer in the north of Ghana. Dave firmly believes that financial literacy is vital to creating well-rounded students that are prepared for a complex and highly competitive world. During what free time two young daughters will allow, Dave enjoys video games, Dungeons & Dragons, cooking, gardening, and taking naps.

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