I have a therapy dog (different than a service animal), so while he's only allowed to accompany me to certain events, I am able to take him other places because he's so calm and well behaved. He's with me pretty much all the time, and has been a big help in therapy because he's such a stress-reducer and my therapist is an animal lover so that helps me see her in a good light.

His only cost was the shelter fee, plus a nominal registration for therapy animal renewal. The big expenses are the ones common to all dogs--vet bills and food.