Keeping a pet in Hong Kong's cramped, overpriced apartments is tough enough, but the costs of food, medicine and the occasional vet visit can make it even harder to justify owning a four-legged friend. How do you keep your pet happy, while cutting costs?
The obvious first cost saver for aspiring owners is to adopt your animal for free from a reputable organisation, such Hong Kong Dog Rescue or the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Most of these animals will come with the necessary shots and will be desexed - all in, it is much cheaper and more charitable than buying from a pet shop.
The type of pet you get will affect your long-term costs. Dr Tony Matthews of the Acorn Veterinary Hospital in Sai Ying Pun, says: "Obviously a short-haired cat may require less grooming than a long-hair, whilst food bills for a large breed dog can escalate.
"Some breeds are unfortunately renowned for medical conditions, such as bulldogs, shar peis and chows, and you might opt for an animal less prone to congenital disease, such as a mongrel or standard moggie."
However, do not buy prescription foods online, as the sale of such drugs without veterinary input and guidance is illegal.