How Much Does a Russian Blue Kitten Cost?

Descending from Russia, the Russian Blue is medium in size, lean and seal-like in texture, making his first appearance at the London’s Crystal Palace in 1875.  Labeled as an Archangel Cat, because he was said to be from the island of Archangel in Russia, he competed with other blue cats at the time.

“Sacha” (CC BY 2.0) by  Sensual Shadows Photography

How much does a Russian blue kitten cost?

The cost of a Russian Blue kitten will depend on its quality, age, the breeder and where you live.  A high-quality Russian Blue should cost about $400 to $750, but if you were able to find an older cat, the costs could be as little as $150.  Keep in mind that this breed is relatively rare, so it may be hard to find one in your local area, and even if you were able to find one, there’s a good chance there will be a waiting list.   Show-quality cats registered with the TICA can cost much more, often around $1,300 to $2,000.

PetPlace.com says if you were to find a show-quality cat, the costs could be as high as $2,000, depending on the bloodlines, conformations, coat color and show prospects.

The TICA, for example, lists registered Russian Blue breeders in the United States.  One breeder, we found on this list, for example, was charging $1,450 per kitten.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

A reputable breeder should include up-to-date vaccinations, registration paperwork and if registered with an organization, such as the TICA, this should be included as well.

Shelters will commonly spay/neuter, include a veterinarian exam and a small starter kit with food samples.

What are the extra costs?

If you never owned a cat before, be prepared to budget for necessary supplies such as food, treats, bedding, bowls, collars, scratch posts, grooming supplies, a litter box, litter and toys.  Depending on what you type of supplies you purchase, it can cost close to $500 to $750 just to get started.  Even when you have all of the necessary supplies, you still need to factor in the recurring food, cat litter, vaccinations, medication and vet visits costs.

As mentioned, since this cat is considered to be rare, you may have to pay shipping costs if you can’t pick it up in person.  The average cost to ship a cat via an airline can cost anywhere from $150 to more than $400, depending on the distance traveled.

Tips to know

The Russian Blue is medium in size, about 10 inches in height to the shoulder, slender and has a well-muscled body. The legs are long, with a thinner tail and wedge-shaped head, and the average weight can range from seven to 13 pounds.

Its coat is known to be very short, dense and plush to the touch.  Common coat colors include blue or silver.

The Russian Blue’s lifespan can range from 10 to 16 years.

These cats tend to like the same surroundings.  They do not like environmental changes and can also get visibly upset if their dinner schedule changes.

This breed is recognized by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) and is accepted by the AACE, ACA, ACFA, CCA, CFA, CFF, TICA and UFO.

Their temperament, as explained by its owners, has said to be very dependent, easy going, intelligent, active, loyal, quiet and very playful.

A good combing is required at least once per week and up to three times per week during its shedding season, which is twice per year:  usually once in the fall when they shed their summer coat and again in the spring when they shed their winter coat.

The Russian Blue is considered to be a hypoallergenic cat, and there’s evidence that the Russian Blue can produce less of the glycoprotein Fel d, which is the most common known allergens of a cat.  Its dense coat can trap most of its allergens, preventing those who suffer from allergies from breathing it in.

A Russian Blue is tolerant toward children who know how to respect a cat.

How can I save money?

Check your local cat shelter or rescue group as these locations are often overrun with hundreds of cats and kittens that need a home.  Use PetFinder.com to either find a Russian Blue in your area or a cat that closely resembles one.

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How Much Do Tulips Cost?

Tulips include any of the several bulbous plants of the genus Tulipa, which is native to Asia and widely cultivated for their showy, variously colored flowers.

Common colors include purple, white, yellow, pink, bicolor and red.

“Tulips” (CC BY 2.0) by  mrsdkrebs

How much do tulips cost?

The cost of tulips will depend on the time of year, the color, grade/quality, where you purchase and how many you purchase at once.  Since tulips are considered to be a seasonal flower, most will be imported from Holland for commercial purposes.   If they are in season, plan on spending anywhere from $1 to $3 per stem or close to $12 to $25 per dozen.  The more stems you purchase at once, the more you are going to save.

Refer to our table below to see what popular colors may cost at your local florist or retailer:

For example, at Sam’s Club, the cost of 100 white Tulips retail for about $110.

Bulbs, on the other hand, can range anywhere from $4 to $10 for a bag of ten.

If you want to send a tulip bouquet, the costs can range anywhere from $30 to $100, depending on the arrangement and which florist you use.

On Amazon.com, for example, the best selling bouquets retail for $30 to $55.

At a U-pick farm, if you have one nearby, can cost $2 to $3 per stem, on average.

For instance, the popular Texas Tulips farm in Pilot Point, Texas, charges $2.50 per stem you pick.

Types of tulips

Double

The double tulip will be similar to that of a standard tulip; however, there will be a double petal growth pattern.

French

French tulips have a larger head and its stem will be longer than average.

Fringed

Fringed tulips have petals which are topped with “fringes” that looks similar to a frayed edge of a satin fabric.

Parrot

Parrot tulips will have a ruffled edge with many multi-colored patterns.

Tips to know

Tulips, whether purchased at a florist or retailer, may either come with a vase of choice or a temporary box/flower bag depending on the number of the stems purchased.

The way you plant your tulips makes a big difference in growth and health.  You should always purchase your bulbs in August or September, place them in the refrigerator, and then plant them in October or November.  They should be planted about three or four inches deep and at least six inches from each other.  Once planted, cover them with chopped leaves, wood chips, or mulch to retain moisture and help control the weeds.

Keep the soil wet, but do not let the tulips sit in standing water.  They will need more watering during the summer months, especially if you live in a warmer climate.

Fertilize the tulips at the beginning of each spring and fall, and spray them to keep harmful insects and rodents away.

Tulips originate in regions with colder winters and dry summers and can grow in fertile, well-drained soil in either full or afternoon sun.  In regions warmer than Zone 8, bulbs will need a cold treatment (40° to 45°F) for eight to 10 weeks.

How can I save money?

You can save money when you buy directly from a florist or wholesaler because they are usually cheaper than online stores.  However, if you are going to purchase online, make sure that you look for coupon codes before proceeding.

Many local florists often offer specials when the flowers are in season.  Consider calling a few local florists in your area to see if they have any current promotions going on.

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How Much Does a Submarine Cost?

A submarine used to be a military tool, but recently, it has turned into a luxury by the ultra rich.

“submarine” (CC BY 2.0) by  RodneyRamsey

How much does a submarine cost?

On average, a submarine could be as little as $80,000 for a simple pedal-powered submarine to as much as $80+ million for a recreational use submarine.

Slate.com says it is possible to buy your own personal sub, with prices ranging from as little as $600,000 for an entry-level, winged submersible submarine to as much as $80 million for a 5,000 square-foot submarine with a living and dining room.

For example, the company, Triton, has a sub that’s rated to go as deep as 3,000 feet.  Most of their models cost well over a million dollars.

Thrillist.com broke down the 12 personal submarines you could purchase right now.  According to their list, prices ranged from as little as $80,000 for the Seabreacher X to as much as $2 million for a submarine-like sports car.

The 377-foot Migaloo submarine, considered to be the most luxurious submarine on the market, had cost $2.3 billion to build.

The military, on the other hand, spends close to $2+ billion per submarine.   The U.S. Navy’s Virginia-class New Attack submarine, for instance, costs $2.4 billion and is capable of carrying 16 Tomahawk cruise missiles. The Ohio-class can cost almost double that at $4 billion.

Submarine overview

An entry-level submarine, often the cheapest option available, can be launched from a ramp or beach and are easy to maneuver.  These submarines are capable of barrel rolling, leaping out of the water and are ideal for those who want to explore the water.  However, unlike the submarines you’re used to seeing in a movie, these entry-level models often can’t go very deep since they have to keep moving in order to stay submerged.

In most cats, manufacturers require that recreational sub owners go through a training course, similar to that of a yacht captain controlling a boat.

What are the extra costs?

Pilot training will be required, and in some cases, the company, depending on who you purchase from, may not include it.  For a fee, however, they may be able to send a qualified professional to train you.  This fee, on average, can be anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.

Spare parts can be very costly when compared to other modes of transportation, and as with anything with working parts, it’s bound to fail sooner or later.  A control panel, for example, can easily cost $5,000, whereas a deep cycle battery can cost close to $10,000 for a recreational sized submarine.

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How Much Does a SunSetter Awning Cost?

SunSetter, an awning company, is heavily marketed toward do-it-yourselfers, often during television infomercials.

Extending nine to 11 feet away from the home, these awnings have assorted widths, ranging from 10 to as long as 20 feet.

How much does a SunSetter awning cost?

The cost of a SunSetter awning will depend on the size, if it’s manual/automatic, where you purchase it and if you need a professional contractor to help you install it.  On average, a manual awning can cost about $1,700 to $2,100, whereas a motorized version can cost about $2,400 to $3,300.  This is the price for the awning only and wouldn’t include any professional installation.  If you were to hire a professional to install the awning for you, then it’s safe to add another $300 to $500 to this price.  If you do need to hire a handyman, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to have local contractors send you their ballpark estimates for free.  Simply explain your job and watch the quotes come in.

A freestanding SunSetter awning, on the other hand, can cost about 20 percent less than the estimates mentioned.

We were able to gather a few quotes for popular sizes and listed them inside our table below. Keep in mind that these prices can vary based on your location.

NOTE:  These are prices for the awning only and won’t include the professional installation.

From most of the reviews we had looked at on ConsumerAffairs.com, people had paid anywhere from $2,700 to $3,500 for their complete setup.

SunSetter awning overview

SunSetter awnings are either manually opened, which uses a hand crank to open or close the awning, or an automatic awning, which opens and closes with a push of a button.

The awnings come in standard sizes, meaning they can’t be customized; however, they do offer a variety of styles and colors to complement your tastes.  The company offers four projection sizes and 28 fabrics to choose from.  All awnings are assembled in the USA.

The company does offer a five-year warranty covering the electronic components, fabric and frame, but as reviewers online have mentioned, this warranty is pro-rated, meaning the longer you have it, the less you will receive toward your repair.

What are the extra costs?

While optional, a wireless wind sensor can automatically close your awning on a windy day.  This type of device can cost close to $200.   LED lights, again, while optional, are also purchased to create a nice ambiance at night.  In some cases, a sensor may be included.  Other accessories include a mat, cleaning kit, awning cover, weather breaker panels and/or an awning hood.

From reading reviews online, replacement fabric is needed every five to seven years, depending on where you live; however, you can greatly extend your fabric’s life as long as you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.  For example, the awning should always be retracted during a rain or windstorm since the rain can pool on the top, creating too much weight, and the wind can literally rip the awning away from the house.  If there’s ever a chance of rain or wind, it’s best to play it safe and retract your awning.  The SunSetter awning replacement fabric, if you were to replace it, could cost $350 to $550 for just the fabric, depending on your awning’s size.

Some dealers may charge a delivery fee, which is usually around $100.

Tips to know:

SunSetter awnings can be installed on stucco, aluminum, vinyl siding, wood or on bricks.  It can also be installed directly on overhangs and eaves with the right mouting equipment.

How can I save money?

If you don’t mind opening your awning by hand, this could save you up to 30 percent.

Sign up on the official SunSetter website to request your free kit and get a $200 savings certificate.

This is just one of the many awning companies available.  Be sure to compare other brands to see if this is the best option for your home.

You can find slightly used SunSetter awnings online via eBay and Craigslist.  At the time of this writing, we were able to find used awnings for as little as $800 on eBay.

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How Much Does a Sugar Glider Cost?

The sugar glider, a nocturnal marsupial from the southern Pacific, resembles a flying squirrel and is often kept as an exotic pet.

“Who’s there” (CC BY 2.0) by  LostinTexas

How much does a sugar glider cost?

The cost of a sugar glider can greatly vary depending on the gender, lineage and the breeder you’re adopting from.  Like a dog or cat, if you were to adopt, the costs can be all over the place.  A baby sugar glider, aged eight to 13 weeks old, will often cost $200 to $650.  A luxurious or pure white breeder can cost upwards of $1,500.

According to Babble.com, the average sugar glider can cost $200 to $300.

Dr. David Brust says that a baby sugar glider, between the ages of eight to 12 weeks old, should be $200 to $400.  In his guide, he also notes that these animals are some of the cheapest pets to own, often costing as little as $10 per month.

What are the extra costs?

A large cage, at least 50 to 70 inches tall and 50 inches wide, is highly recommended, but the larger it is, the better it will be.  As for the spacing, it shouldn’t be larger than one-half of an inch, because if it’s anything larger, a sugar glider can easily squeeze through.  A brand new sugar glider cage can cost $50 to $125.  For example, on Amazon.com, its best selling sugar glider cage retails for a bit less than $100.

Inside this cage should be a few toys to keep it entertained throughout the day.  This can include a suspension bridge, hideaway house or upside down swing.  Sugar glider toy packs, on Amazon, for instance, retail for about $30.  Here’s what a sugar glider cage setup can look like.

As for food, sugar gliders feed on fruits and vegetables, which need to be cut up every night to ensure it’s fresh.  They will also need a protein source, calcium supplements and a variety of insects to create a well-balanced diet.  It’s best to budget about $0.50 per day for food.  Do your own research or talk with your vet to see what kind of diet plan you should create.

Because it needs to stay warm, a heat rock or lamp is highly recommended to keep it warm.  These run about $20 to $40.

Experts highly recommend buying a sugar glider in pairs since they are very social creatures and can get lonely quite easily.

Some owners opt to neuter their sugar glider, especially if housing with other females.  The costs at a local vet to neuter a sugar glider can cost about $50 to $85.

Tips to know:

The most common color variations found includes leucistic (white with black eyes), cremino (creamy albino), white tip, white face, red-brown, platinum and a black face black beauty, according to Sugar-Gliders.com.

A sugar glider’s lifespan, when in captivity and kept healthy, can live up to 15 years.

If adopting, always adopt from a USDA licensed breeder to ensure you’re adopting from someone who’s reputable.  Even if they are USDA licensed, however, it won’t mean they are ethical and will offer a high-quality sugar glider.  Be sure to look at their breeding setup and see if you can find any reviews online to see what previous owners have said.  If at all possible, avoid adopting from a mall, expo, pet show or flea market.

Sugar gliders aren’t recommended for smaller children due to their fragile state.  Even though they may seem friendly, they can bite and can easily become injured if a child were to drop it.

Even though they seem tiny, they do make a lot of noise.  Since they sleep during the day, be prepared to hear screeching or barking noises throughout the night.

A sugar glider is commonly purchased either online via a reputable online pet store or even from a local breeder, who can often be found via Craigslist.

In some areas, you may need a permit to own one.  Refer to your local city laws to see if they are allowed.

How can I save money?

A sugar glider rescue group may exist in your area.  Just like a dog or cat, you may be able to find an older sugar glider that costs less than $100; however, if you were to find an older sugar glider, do keep in mind that some may not respond well to owner training.

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How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost?

Permanent teeth may be meant to last a lifetime, but there are inevitable circumstances when you may need to have a tooth extracted.  This could include severe pain, a non-repairable situation, rotten teeth, an impacted tooth or overcrowded teeth.

“Dentist” (CC BY 2.0) by Sole Treadmill

How much does a tooth extraction cost?

There are many different reasons a tooth can be pulled, and for that reason, it can be hard to offer an estimate.  The costs can range from as little as $90 to more than $1,000+, depending on your circumstances, your dentist and where you live.  With so many scenarios, we created a chart to help you figure out what a tooth extraction may cost you for your circumstances.

According to YourDentistryGuide.com, they say the harder the tooth is to remove, the more it’s going to cost, but on average, be prepared to spend $130 to $400.

Delta Dental, a popular dental insurance carrier, covers a tooth extraction procedure and customers report paying $75 to $200 per tooth after insurance kicked in.

Tooth extraction overview

During a simple extraction, your dentist will remove your tooth by loosening the gums surrounding the tooth while using forceps to wiggle it free.  With a complex surgical extraction, your dentist, depending on the situation, will either remove your tooth above the gum line, leaving the roots in place if no enamel is showing or a luxation procedure, a process where your dentist will use a sharp tool to force the root and bone out, while suturing the remaining hole.  If the teeth are impacted, then an incision may be made into the gums surrounding the tooth, essentially creating a flap to remove it.

After the extraction, your dentist will have you bit down on a gauze for about 30 to 45 minutes to place pressure on the area to allow the blood to naturally clot.  For the next day, you will be asked to stick to a soft food/liquid diet and rinse the socket with warm salt water after meals and before bed.

What are the extra costs?

Almost always, you will need a preliminary examination before your dentist decides to remove your tooth.  This exam can cost anywhere from as little as $50 to $150 for just the oral examination.  Then, if x-rays were needed, which in most cases, they are, it will tack on another $50 to $150.

In complicated cases, x-rays, sedation, stitches and/or an anesthetic may be needed to help with the process.  The average x-ray can cost another $50 to $150, whereas stitches can cost another $100 to $200.  All dentist offices have its own billing policy, so refer to their documentation to know what you’re going to be charged.

A mild sedation, such as a nitrous oxide, can cost another $50 to $150, whereas a local anesthetic can add $200 to $400 to the total billing cost.  If you want to “go under” with general anesthesia, then this could cost upwards of $400+ per hour.

Emergency situation costs can increase if you needed it done on a weekend or during a holiday.

Factor in aftercare expenses such as removing stitches and/or checking on the progress.  Some offices may include this fee in the estimates mentioned above while others may charge another office visit fee.

Pain and/or antibiotic medication will often be prescribed after the extraction is complete.

Tips to know:

A tooth extraction, if needed, should be done as soon as possible to avoid infection and serious problems, according to WebMD.

Risks may include bacteria entering the bloodstream, causing infections on other parts of the body and/or a blood clot to become dislodged, which can expose the bone, causing serious pain, also referred to as “dry socket.”  Other risks may include an incomplete extraction, alignment problems, a fractured jaw or nerve injuries.

Your blood clot, on average, will last anywhere from a few days to weeks, dependin on your healing process and aftercare.

How can I save money?

Medicare or Medicaid may pay for your extraction, but in most cases, if it isn’t an emergency, it’s probably a no-go.  To learn more, check with your provider to see if they can help with the costs.

If you do have dental insurance, then they will almost always cover the procedure as long as it’s deemed medically necessary.  As long as you didn’t reach your annual maximum, you may find your insurance company covering up to 90 percent of the costs.

If you don’t have dental insurance, then highly consider a dental discount plan.  These plans work very similar to insurance, offering you significant savings.  Visit DentalPlans.com to see what kind of dentist plans are available in your area and what kind of savings you may be able to take advantage of.

Dental schools are another way to take advantage of solid deals if one is available in your area.  These clinics, even though students will work with you, are still supervised by a certified dental professional.

Consider checking ClinicalTrials.gov to see if you can take advantage of a trial offer.

This state directory may be able to help you pay for some of your expenses.  Refer to the list to see which organizations are available in your area.

If you need any other dental work, see if you can bundle it all as a package to bring the costs down.

Some offices, if you were to pay in cash up front, may be able to knock a certain percentage off.

Even if you’re loyal to one dentist, see what other offices are charging in your area.  If you’re able to find a lower price, see if your dentist is able to match it.

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How Much Does Pulled Pork Cost?

Pulled pork refers to the tender meat from a pork shoulder cut and can easily be pulled apart from the roast with your finger or a fork.

Pulled pork is divided into two parts: one is the butt end and the other is the shank end.  By butt, it does not literally mean the actual butt of the pig.  Rather, it is so-called the “butt” portion because it is that portion located in the rear end of the shoulder.  People often prefer this part because it has fewer bones and less connective tissue.  The shank portion, on the other hand, has this name because of its shank bone.  Although it makes delicious pulled pork, you can notice that the shank part has a different texture and contains more connective tissue.  This makes the pulled pork tougher and harder to chew.

“Pulled pork” (CC BY 2.0) by  hepp

How much does pulled pork cost per pound?

On average, the cost of pulled pork will depend on how you want to purchase it.  If you want to purchase a “tub” or “can” of it at your local grocery store, then the costs can range from $4 to $10 per 16 to 24-ounce container.   The costs of processed pulled pork will depend on the brand, the quantity and where you purchase it.

Harvest Creek pulled pork, a popular brand found on Amazon, for example, costs about $5 per 12-ounce can.

For example, at Walmart, a 16-ounce package of Jack Daniel’s pulled pork with Jack Daniel’s barbeque sauce retailed for $7, while a smaller 18-ounce container of Lloyd’s shredded original BBQ pulled pork retails for $4.  Popular brands, aside from Jack Daniel’s and Lloyd’s, includes Curly’s, Ball Park, Byron’s, Tony Roma’s, Morningstar Farms and Swanson’s.  While most of these containers are found in the refrigerated section, some brands such as Ball Park have frozen options available.

At Gordon’s Food Service, a five-pound tray of BBQ pulled pork will cost close to $20 to $25.

As for purchasing pulled pork already spiced and prepped at a restaurant, caterer or butcher can cost anywhere from $7 to $15 per pound.

Dickie Do’s, a BBQ caterer located in North Carolina, offers an official pricing list on its website.  According to the prices, if you were to purchase their prepared pulled pork by the pound, it would cost $8.49 per pound, but if you were to buy more than seven pounds, the price would drop to $7.49 per pound.  If you were to want to add three sides with the pulled pork, then they would start the pricing at $10 per person.

Ruby’s BBQ, another caterer we found online, is based in Texas and charged a bit higher than most other BBQ caterers at $17.95 per pound.

Pulled pork overview

Pulled pork is the fatty, flavorful meat, usually made with the pork shoulder, which is oftentimes referred to as the pork butt or the Boston shoulder.  To create pulled pork, the shoulder will be smoked over a low heat for a long period of time, effectively softening the connective tissue, making it so tender that it falls apart with ease.  While most of the time, it’s smoked, it can also be braised in the oven or prepared in a crockpot.

Tips to know:

One pound prepared, on average, should serve about four to six people.   How much pulled pork per person, you may be wondering?  Experts recommend one-half pound per raw weight unless the crowd is much hungrier than usual.

Pulled pork is paired well with BBQ sauce, cole slaw or even in a hard shell taco shell.  When paired with onions, beans and cilantro, it’s said to make some lovely cuisine.

The best store bought pulled pork, according to the Tampa Bay Times, was Sweeet Baby Ray’s, which scored a 67 out of 100.  Lloyd’s came in a close second, followed by Curly’s and the Publix brand.

How can I save money?

If you’re purchasing from a local butcher or caterer, most will drop the price by $1 to $2 per pound if you buy more than 10 pounds at a time.  The same can be said about purchasing pulled pork in a container.  At Sam’s Club, for example, the costs of a 64-ounce container retails for about $13.

The brands mentioned above often offer coupons either online or in the local paper.  Search online before shopping to see if you can save a few dollars.

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How Much Does a Puli Dog Cost?

A Puli, also known as the Hungarian Pull, “dreadlock” dog or Hungarian Water Dog, is a descendant of the sheepdog in the ancient Magyar tribe from the Ural Mountains of Central Asia.  This dog was used primarily for herding, guarding livestock and commonly worked closely with the larger type of dog called the white Komondor.

While the Komondor patrols the area guarding the flock during the night, the Puli will guard and herd during the day.  Whenever bears or wolves came to attack the livestock, the Puli would alert the Komondor, and together, they would fight off the aggressors.

Today, the Puli still serves as a sheepdog in Hungary, but it is more popular as a show dog or as a pet in other countries such as the United States.

“Puli duo on the Oregon Coast” (CC BY 2.0) by  puliarf

How much does a Puli dog cost?

On average, Pulik puppies will range anywhere from as little as $800 to as much as $1,500+.  The costs will depend on the age, quality, pet’s history, breeder, where you live, lineage, popularity at the time of purchase and inclusions.  Today, there are only a few breeders, and this is the reason the cost can be quite high in some areas, so don’t be surprised if the prices you see are higher than this.  In fact, less than one hudnred are registered every year in the United States.  On average, your costlier dogs will have breeding rights and a premium lineage, making it a great show dog with no imperfections.

PuppyFind.com, for example, only featured 10 active listings, ranging from as little as $600 to as much as $1,000.

The current median price, as according to NextDayPets.com, is about $1,350.

On EuroPuppy.com, the prices ranged from as little as $1,750 to as much as $2,140 for a champion bloodline.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Breeders should include up-to-date vaccinations, registration paperwork, and a health guarantee.  If shipped, the breeder should include an airline-approved travel carrier as well.  A good breeder will also provide the deworming, genetic testing, a microchip and starter kit that includes food and other related samples.

What are the extra costs?

As mentioned, since it can be hard to find this dog locally, there’s a good chance you will have to pay for shipping fees.  Depending on how you ship, the costs can be anywhere from $200 to $500.

Of course, as with any dog, be prepared to budget for basic necessities such as dog food, accessories, medication, dog grooming sessions and vet visits.  A healthy larger dog, such as the Puli, can easily cost $600+ per year.   If you have never owned a dog before, then the start-up costs need to be budgeted for as well, including toys, bowls, a bed, crate, leash and collar, for instance.

Highly consider enrolling your Puli in obedience classes at a young age to teach the basics of sit, stay and lay down.

Tips to know:

The Puli can grow 15 to 17 inches tall, weighing around 25 to 35 pounds.

The coat is known to be longer, naturally corded, similar to that of dreadlocks, and can grow to the ground.  Common coat colors include black, silver, white, brown and cream.  This coat can be left as is, but if so, it will need to be brushed almost daily to separate any dirt or debris from the coat to prevent it from collecting fleas.  In some circumstances, owners shave it to keep it from shedding and keeping it cool during the warmer months.

Its temperament, as described by its owners, is said to be very agile, faithful, smart, loyal and very energetic.

When healthy, its lifespan can range from 12 to 16 years.

A Puli is known to be an intelligent breed, but it also has a stubborn attitude, requiring a firm and consistent approach when you intend to train it.

To find a reputable breeder for a Puli, visit the Puli Club of America.

The Puli is also considered an effective therapy dog because of its special concern for the aged and the sick.

While it may be affectionate and enjoy the love of the family that adopts it, a Puli is naturally suspicious of strangers, making it a good watchdog. The Puli is very vocal and tends to bark a lot.

The Puli has been known to adapt to any circumstance, whether it’s a larger farm or even an apartment.  Regardless of where you live, it’s best to take it out for a walk at least for 30 minutes every day to give it the exercise it needs.

Every dog has hereditary health conditions to worry about and the Puli is no exception.  Common health conditions include hip dysplasia and eye problems.

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook, owns a Puli named Beast.

They definitely shed, but unlike most dogs, the hair gets caught in the coat instead of falling to the ground.

How can I save money?

These dogs are very rare, and for that reason, it’s no surprise in the end if your bill just to adopt totals more than $2,000.  For this very reason, highly consider visiting a local shelter or rescue group, if available, to see if you can find a dog that closely resembles this breed.

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How Much Does a Pug Cost?

A pug is a small, stocky dog with a round head and square-shaped muzzle.

The pug is considered to have ties to the Pekingese and Shi Tzu, but there’s no clear date as to when the Pug was introduced due to the lack of records available.

The pug was recognized by the American Kennel Club in the mid-1880s.

“sad pug” (CC BY 2.0) by  hannahkrajewski

How much does a pug cost?

On average, a pug puppy is going to cost anywhere from $650 to as much as $1,500 for a high-quality dog.  The price will depend on the dog’s history, age, color, quality, the geographical location, breeder, and what is included with the initial adoption.  A purebred pug registered with the AKC and a great bloodline can cost much more than a pug that doesn’t meet the AKC standards.

A teacup pug, which isn’t a pug, per se, can cost about $2,500 if you were able to find one; however, a teacup pug, as mentioned, isn’t considered a pug but rather a mix between a pug and another smaller breed.

We researched a handful of breeders online and included the prices we received inside the table below:

PugVillage.com says the average pug can cost anywhere from $800 from a reputable breeder to as much as $1,500 from a well-known highly reputable breeder, but in the end, the costs will greatly depend on your geographical location and the quality of the dog.

At PuppyFind.com, for example, there were 300+ listings at the time of this writing, with prices ranging from $500 to as much as $1,800.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Reputable breeders should always include registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a health certification from a licensed vet and health guarantee.  Although optional, some breeders will include genetic testing, microchip and/or deworming.

What are the extra costs?

If the dog has to be shipped via an airline or by car, you will more than likely have to spend an additional $100 to $300.

Dog food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, veterinarian visits and medication all need to be budgeted for.  The average pug, even when healthy, can easily cost $75+ per month or up to $1,000 annually.  Highly rated pug dog food, for instance, can cost close to $35 for a 10-pound bag.  These costs can be much higher if you have never owned a dog before.

Tips to know:

Pugs are commonly fawn or black in color.  Although some people say that a black pug is more active than its fawn-colored counterpart, there is actually a little personality difference between the two colors.  The AKC only accepts fawn, silver fawn, black and apricot-fawn coats.

Common characteristics, as explained by their owners, can include stubbornness, snorting, wheezing, slowness to learn commands and/or heavy shedding.

On average, as long as healthy, pugs live up to 12 years, but with the proper care and nutrition, they can live well beyond these years.

Being a small dog, pugs can do quite well inside an apartment since they don’t require a lot of room to run around and exercise.  Like a cat, pugs can sleep up to 16 hours a day.

Known to be extremely gentle and passive, pugs are an amazing choice for younger children.

Pugs, even though they may bark, usually won’t unless they are taught to do so.

As for shedding, pugs are known to be the worst in the shedding category.  Since most pugs have a double coat, the undercoat continues to always grow, pushing the top coat out, leaving it all over the place.

How can I save money?

Pugs are quite common at local rescue groups or adoption centers.  Even though the dog may be older, it’s going to save you a lot of money; plus, you’re going to be able to offer the dog a forever home and help an organization that can probably use your donation.  If you don’t mind adopting and saving a dog’s life, consider checking one near you.  AdoptaPet.com offers an easy-to-use search engine to find adoptable pets in your area.

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How Much Does a Pufferfish Cost?

A pufferfish, also known as blowfish, is believed to be the second most poisonous vertebrates in the world next to the golden poison frog.

The pufferfish developed the ability to inflate many times its size using water and air in order to avert predators since they are typically slow moving fish.  When the pufferfish inflates, there are many spines surrounding it, making it inedible for other fish.

The pufferfish contains tetrodotoxin, which is known to be 1,200 times more fatal than cyanide.  In fact, a single pufferfish contains enough poison to kill 30 human beings, and unfortunately, there has been no known antidote for it yet.  Despite this fact, however, many people still seem to be fascinated with this species.  In Japan, the meat, known as fugu, is an expensive delicacy.  Other people also find the fish lovable enough to be a pet.

“Puffer w/o spines? baby parrot fish? loo” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  wbaiv

How much does a pufferfish cost?

Since there are so many different species, the costs of a pufferfish will range anywhere from as little as $2 to as much as $65.  Most species, however, will be less than $35.  The larger the species is, the more it is going to cost; in general, anything over four inches is usually considered to be large.  Common species include the dog face puffer, fahaka, porcupine, saddle, spiny box, spotted and leopard.

LifeAquaria.com, for example, has a large selection of pufferfish that range from as little as $25 to as much as $65.  The narrow-lined puffer retails for $24.99 while the leopard puffer retails for $37.

On eBay.com, at the time of this writing, there were a handful of “buy it now” listings ranging from $40 for a four-inch porcupine puffer to as much as $85 for a tropical fahaka puffer.

NOTE:  These price estimates are for fish smaller in size.

What are the extra costs?

A 50 to a 100-gallon aquarium is recommended for a pufferfish.  Most aquariums will start at $50 and go up from there, depending on the type of aquarium and set up you wish to purchase.  Saltwater tanks are a must for pufferfish and are much more expensive than freshwater tanks.  On Amazon.com, for instance, popular 100-gallon aquariums easily cost more than $450.

Aside from the aquarium, accessories, such as the aquarium lighting system, sand substrate, plants, a heater, filter, water conditioner, probe thermometer, hydrometer, and pH test kit, will all be needed for your tank.  All of these accessories, when purchased brand new, can reach well into the hundreds.

Salt water will need to be replaced partially every month at a minimum.  Two buckets can cost less than $200 for the year.  A useful bacteria solution, ammonia, nitrate and nitrite water testing kit is recommended to ensure that the water is healthy enough for the fish.

Like any other animal, fish food, such as earthworms, bloodworms, squid, crab, and/or mussels in the shells, will need to be budgeted for.  It’s important to vary its diet to ensure a proper nutritional balance and feed up to two times per day.

Tips to know:

The average adult size, depending on the species, can range from three to 25 inches, according to Petco.com.

Depending on the species, some pufferfish may thrive in freshwater, in brackish water or in a combination of both.

Keep a close eye on the temperature and pH level of your aquarium, ensuring that your puffer has enough places to hide and sand to search through.

Pufferfish have the ability to gulp down a large amount of water, bloating themselves up to appear large and round.  This characteristic seems to warn humans and predators not to get nearer or catch them because of the poison it brings.

Pufferfish are known to be clumsy swimmers.

A spotted puffer fish is not a beginner’s pet.  This quirky fish tends to eat other fish, nip at their fins or starve itself because it is not quick enough to compete with other fish for food.

Even though eating pufferfish can be deadly, it is still a popular food in some countries; however, some breeders in Japan have recently bred a red puffer fish that is poison-free.

Pufferfish are not considered to be a community fish.  They have the tendency to eat other species and are, therefore, better kept in a separate aquarium.

Signs of a poor fish may include cloudy looking eyes, weight loss, erratic swimming or spots near the mouth.

How can I save money?

Look for used saltwater tank set ups.  You will most likely be able to find one online at sites such as Craigslist or eBay.

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