Your Best Friend Is Counting On You!
Pets On A Budget!
Last year I went grocery shopping and as I went up the pet isle to get my cat food I remember seeing a small crowd in front of the canned goods shelf. By crowd, I mean two obviously senior citizens. They were standing right in front of the brand I always buy. I quickly understood why they were looking so upset, the price had gone up! Previously it had been 50 cents a can and it had gone up to 70 cents. Twenty cents may not seem like a lot to some folks but, depending on how much you buy and your budget, especially if it’s on a fixed income, it does make a difference.
With all of us having to watch our spending these days, our pet expenses definitely factor in as well. However, with some creative thinking we can find some ways to cut some of our costs without sacrificing quality of life.
Food plays a large and constant part in pet care costs. Have you ever checked out the many websites where you can download printable coupons for pet food? Here are a few:
- http://printable-coupons.blogspot.com/2005/10/pet-coupons.html
- http://www.purina.com/petlover/index.aspx
- http://www.mahalo.com/pet-food-coupons
You may not get hundreds of dollars off but remember that 20 cents increase? If you know someone who does not have access to a computer, print some out for them too. Of course, be sure to check your local weekly newspaper and the fliers that come to your home for coupons.
Medical bills are also a big factor in pet costs. Now is the time to put aside feelings of pride. Hopefully you already have a veterinarian you have come to trust with your pet. Talk to him or her and let them know if money is tight for you right now. If your pet needs medication, they may be able to prescribe a more generic brand or lower cost alternative. At my vets office they have a sign saying Payment Due Upon Service, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask. Maybe your vet would be willing to take payments especially if you have been going to them for years. Today’s economy is not isolated to one group or one region of the country, just be honest and maybe he or she will work with you.
Be sure to pick up a pet newspaper that you might find at the vets office or pet stores, they have a wealth of ongoing information that might help you save some money. Local shelters offer free or no-cost vaccinations as well as spaying and neutering.
Every little bit counts, the money you save will not only help you and your family monetarily but lessens stress and concern.
Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisper suggested in a recent newsletter that if you really can’t afford a pet at this time, consider volunteering at places such as shelters and rescues. Keep “adopting a dog or cat” on your wish list for the time when things turn around for you.
Your Best Friend Is Counting On You!
Get a Free Pet Emergency Preparedness Report at www.WhiskerFeathers.com
