I got Kaedyn for $125 (very cheap compared to the $500 we paid for Kai). He came already vaccinated and neutered. Less to pay for, right? Barely!

Training classes to socialize - $100
License - $25
Food - $60
Vet Checkups x4 (I know he has gone way more than that though) - $100 (probably more)
Flea/heartworm preventative - $100
Vet: bite/stitches - $100+
Vet: Teeth extraction/consultation/medication/other fees - $307
Crate (to keep him safe when no one's home) - $120

Within the last year alone, I've spent a minimum of $912 on him. I didn't include some essentials (bowls, leashes, collars, tags), toys, treats and some other stuff. I will also be spending much more on hiring a trainer to help us get him over his problems (caused by his past owners). $912 is over 7 times more than what I payed to adopt him.

It doesn't matter if she gets the dog for free or not. There's just no way to escape the cost and responsibility of owning a dog.

However, if she is desperate to have a dog around, some shelters/rescues will foster out their animals and cover all vet and food expenses (I find that most don't, but I've found a few that do). It may not be what she wants exactly, but she'll be helping out a dog and rescue, and she can still save up for a dog of her own.