yes I do have children, my youngest is 7. I had a chihuahu before and had to take her to the vet and was a good $1500. So I do know its pretty expensive but I think is that way with any dog or cat, depending on the injury and what has to be done. I no longer have my chihuaha as she has passed, and I dont want to get another because they are not so good with kids. I got her before I had kids, and just couldnt bear giving her up but I had to monitor her all the time and make sure the kids didnt bug her. As they got older she was able to play with then and be around them. Thank you for the site to look into I will start there.