"Before you adopt a pet, make sure you can afford the ongoing expense." That's almost all that is to be gleaned from these two shows combined. No costs are ballparked so people who hadn't considered the aspect of money still have no clue as to how much money can be involved. I would have thought this would offer at the very least a range of actual dollars spent each month.

People tend to far underestimate the cost of pet food. One money-saving tip: Cats (I don't know about dogs) don't need canned food but are generally perfectly healthy and happy with just dry, which is far less expensive.

Toys are astonishingly expensive - up to $5 for a couple of small balls or a cloth mouse - as are scratching posts, which are a must-have, I think. Then there are claw-cutters, brushes, and lint removers for the owner's own clothes!

I did not hear any mention of annual or semiannual check-ups and booster shots. Also important is the aspect of chronic disease such as diabetes, which is not uncommon in cats and can develop at any time, and chalks up huge costs (insulin, syringes ...).

For these medical expenses, one can buy pet insurance - BEFORE the pet has a "pre-existing condition." Some vets also offer pre-paid cards, which is actually great for budgeting because that way the owner has already squared something away for the future.

While you mention micro-chipping, you omit the monthly subscription fee for the service. It's not a one-shot purchase.

I would also have included the cost of euthanasia and disposal, which can amount in New York to more than $300 for a cat.