How To Budget Dog Ownership In Today’s Economy: 10 Money Saving Tips On Necessary Expenses
The plummeting Economy is showing no sign of letting up. With financial troubles knocking on our doors, we have to worry about our ability to properly care for our dogs. Here are some hints and tips on how to make pet ownership a bit more economical, as well as some thoughts on how to be a more frugal canine parent.
* While they don’t replace a thorough yearly checkup with your veterinarian, various shelters and Petco stores often offer vaccine clinics. Your dog can receive his shots at a great discount. Search for a low cost vaccine clinic locally via google.
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* Speaking of vaccinations, it’s actually beneficial for adult dogs to receive their yearly vaccines over the span of a few weeks, rather than at the same time. Vaccines are an assault to the immune system and in order to allow ample recovery time in between pokes, they should be spread out. 3 weeks between injections should give your pet and your pocketbook a bit of time to recover.
* Seek out yard sales that are sponsored by animal related organizations. Often shelters receive a plethora of donations and put the ones they can’t use up for sale at such events.
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* Raising a litter of puppies is MUCH more expensive than having your pet spayed or neutered! Plus it benefits his overall health! Low cost spay and neuter clinics are in place all over the country. If you need help locating one, contact your local shelter.
* If you’re interested in getting a dog for your family, shelters are a wonderful choice! For a small adoption fee you will receive a fully vaccinated, altered and sometimes microchipped dog! Of course there are many other expenses after the fact, but the initial “start up” costs of a rescue dog are minimal compared to purchasing one from a breeder.
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* Remember that if you feed a high quality dog food or feed raw, your dog will consume less of it than a food that is full of fillers. Diet is not something to skimp on as your dogs health is directly effected by what is put into his system.
* Craigslist is a great place to look for crates and other other items you may need for your dog. If there is something specific you are looking for, place a “wanted” ad in the pets section.
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* Learn to make your own dog treats! Homemade dog treats will be less expensive than those in the store and you’ll know exactly what is going into each and every bite. Also remember that many fruits and veggies can be healthy and affordable snacks for your pet. If you happen to have them in the house, sharing them with your dog can be a frugal way to reward.
* Set up a “pet care exchange” with neighbors and friends who have animal companions. If one of you goes away, you can then have a network of caregivers to help out with your dog. In return, you do the same for them. This can save you a great deal on boarding expenses and if you have a friendly dog, allows him some valuable socialization time!
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* Search for online discounts on all the products and toys you use daily. You can usually find items for less online than you can in the store.
With these tips on how to budget for your pooch, you’ll save a bit of cash! Remember that dogs are a great source of free entertainment! I’m never bored with walking and exploring with my duo and it’s completely free!
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