July 2009

Money-Saving Pet Tips

It seems all animal adoption centers are noticing one commonality these past several months—good-hearted people who are surrendering their pets due to the failing economy. In the event of job loss, priorities change. Feeding children and paying mortgages takes precedence over Fluffy’s grooming appointment, and over time as the bills start to pile up, more and more families are surrendering their four-footed children to animal shelters.

Planning is one of the most important things you can do when considering bringing a pet into your family. Where will you be in a year? In five years? Fifteen? What will happen if you lose your job? When you adopt an animal, you are promising to that sentient being that you will take care of her for the rest of her life. It is not unlike adopting a child—pets are dependent on us for survival.

If you’ve already adopted a pet, and find yourself searching for ways to save money, consider these options:

• Spay and Neuter Your Pets. This will not only help the pet overpopulation problem, but also eliminate many health problems, and therefore, health-related expenses.

• Research Pet Insurance. Many veterinarians take pet health insurance—some policies even cover end-of-life expenses such as euthanasia and cremation.

• Shop Around for Veterinarians. Just like doctors, not all veterinarians charge the same for identical services! Also, try searching for low-cost vaccinations, spaying, and neutering services in your community.

• Do Your Homework on Medications. Again, like humans, medications are different prices depending on where you purchase them. Human pharmacies often carry animal medications, too!

• Learn to Do Some Things Yourself! Do you still go to your vet for Fluffy’s nail trimming and the groomer for her bath? Have your vet and groomer show you how to do it yourself!

• Shop Carefully for Pet Supplies. Look for sales and coupons, and compare prices at your local small pet shop and the big pet store chains.

• Do Not Feed the Cheapest Food. This fast-fix for your wallet could lead to bigger problems down the road. Cheap food can cause health problems.

• Skip the Dog Accessories. Fluffy doesn’t need the rhinestone collar or the doggie rain booties, no matter how cute they are!

• Set Aside Money for Emergencies. Just as you would for your children, your car, or your house, set aside some emergency money for your pet in case something happens.

• Put Off Adding Members of Your Furry Family. Don’t consider adding another dog or cat to your family, no matter how good your intentions, until you are certain you can take care of the family you have!

#

What’s your opinion? Email us at education@nhes.org