Your dog is your best friend, but if you are like many people, you’ve had to make some changes—both financially and otherwise—during this strange year. If you are having a tough time during the pandemic, your pet doesn’t have to suffer. Here are six simple (and budget-friendly) things you can do to keep him healthy and happy.
Spay or Neuter
Though the actual surgery will cost money, the benefits of spaying or neutering your pet far outweigh the costs. Spaying your female dog can prevent serious health issues, such as uterine infections and reproductive tumors. Neutering a male dog can aid in preventing testicular cancer and other costly prostate problems. Why not be proactive now so you don’t have to be reactive—and potentially spend lots of unexpected money and time—at a later date?
Deal Hunt and Use Coupons
Couponing doesn’t just have to be a tactic used for groceries. Pet food companies and pet stores regularly offer deals on items that you are likely buying anyway. Ensure that you are on the mailing lists of every store that you frequent, and join their loyalty clubs if offered. If you typically do your shopping online, scour the internet for codes, such as a prebiothrive coupon code, and enjoy all of the items that keep your furry friend happy and healthy at a discount.
Give Them Plenty of Exercise
If you are lucky enough to have a safe, fenced-in area where your dog can run and burn some energy, be sure that they have access to this area as often as possible. Supervise them while they play, however, so they stay safe and don’t get into anything that could be dangerous. If you have the time, take them on daily walks around the neighborhood. Walking doesn’t cost a thing and you may find that getting outside of the house is just as beneficial for you as it is for your pet.
Don’t Miss Vet Visits
Your vet likely has laid out a schedule for your pet’s visits for regular checkups, shots, and perhaps even bloodwork. It is important not to stray from this schedule, or you could be looking at even pricier visits since everything that has been missed will have to be done all at once—or worse—undiagnosed illness or injury may be discovered. Even if your funds are a bit tight, do your best not to miss important visits to the vet. Risking your pet’s health is just not worth it.
Consider Pet Insurance
If you are unable to start a “rainy day” fund for your pet’s potential needs or illnesses down the road, the next best thing to do is invest in pet insurance. Like human health insurance, you will be expected to pay a monthly fee. Your deductible is based upon the amount of the monthly payment. Read all policies that you are considering closely and make sure that you understand what each policy does and does not cover. If your pet is older, beware of the “preexisting conditions” loophole, where insurance will not pay for anything that the pet has been treated for previously.
Make Treats at Home
If you get sticker shock when shopping for healthy treats for your pal, you are not alone. Many people have resorted to making treats for their dogs at home. It is simple to whip up a recipe from things that you already have in the kitchen, like peanut butter (without xylitol) and oats. Just be sure that whatever you make does not contain anything that is harmful or toxic to your pet. Foods like grapes, cherries, and avocado may be delicious and nutritious for humans, but they can be very dangerous for dogs to eat.
Caring for your pet on a budget does not have to induce stress. Use these simple tips and your best friend will live a life full of joy and excitement.
