Pet owners struggle with economic hard times

Owning a pet can be very rewarding, but can also be financially difficult. With economic hard times upon us, many people have had to surrender their pets because the financial burden is too great. People have to choose between feeding their family or their pets. Now more than ever it is more important to decide if adopting a pet is right for you. In many ways having pets is much like having children and is a long term commitment. If you cannot make this commitment, it is better that you wait to adopt or purchase a pet.

For pet owners with tight budgets, let’s review some old and new ways to save money on pet expenses

Food – It is important to feed your pet the highest quality food you can afford. Buy the largest bag that the food comes in and put half in the freezer if you have a small dog or a cat. Larger packages are more economical per pound. If you cannot afford food, contact your local shelter to get information about free food from local pet food banks.

Toys – Pets don’t care if they have the latest and greatest toys. Give your dog a tennis ball and your cat some feathers purchased from a craft store. You can also increase the longevity of toys by rotating them. Give your pet one to play with for a month and then take that away and put a new toy in the rotation. Cycle between 2-3 toys to help them last and keep old toys fresh to your pet.

Pet Care – While routine checkups at the vet are still important, grooming is not as important. Forgo monthly grooming appointments to save some green. If your pet must be groomed, increase time between sessions or learn how to do it yourself.

Adoption – If you are in the position to get a new pet, strongly consider adopting from a shelter. These animals will be much less expensive than getting a purebred. Most shelters will already have the pet spayed or neutered, which will also save money.

There are many other ways to save money on pet care. Be creative, but also keep your pet’s health and safety in mind. With a little thought and effort, you can keep your pet through the hard times and the good.

Preparing your Pets for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season officially started on June 1^st and doesn’t end until October 31^st. While you might have your family and home prepared for hurricane season, have you prepared your pet? Many people with pets don’t take into account their pets’ needs during a hurricane. Below are some steps you can take to better prepare yourself and your pet for a hurricane.

Prepare a pet disaster kit – Make sure this kit contains medical records, medication, food for two weeks, fresh water, bowls, extra leash and collar and a picture of your pet. Set this kit aside and only use the items during a hurricane. Consider having your pet microchipped by your veterinarian in the event that your pet does get separated from you. Shelters and veterinary hospitals have readers for microchips and will be able to reunite you.

Have a crate available – Pets will be more welcome in shelters if they can be contained. Please note that Red Cross shelters do not accept pets even with a crate. If you plan to use a Red Cross shelter, you will have to board your pet or leave it with friends or family.

Make Prior Arrangements – Research hotels and motels outside your immediate area to review their pet policies. Some won’t allow pets, but may waive this rule in the event of an emergency. Save this information and contact numbers somewhere safe so you can make quick reservations if you have to evacuate. It is also a good idea to make reservations at a kennel outside the evacuation zone or arrange for family or friends to take your pet if you cannot take him/her with you.

Miscellaneous Tips - Make sure your pets are wearing secure collars with up to date information. This will help them to be returned to you. Bring pets inside well before a storm is approaching so you don’t have to search for them when it is time to go. Last but not least, stay calm. If you can be calm, it will help your pet to be calm and will ultimately make the entire situation much easier.