5 Tips To Help Keep Your Pet Healthy And Save Your Money At The Same Time

Todays current economic downturn has hurt just about everyone in one way or another. And if it has not touched you personally, then you are truly lucky and I hope it continues that way for you. For the rest of us however, it has meant many changes in the way we live daily and has affected us in many ways. No longer do we take going out to eat for granted, those extra trips to the store or mall, etc. For many of us, those are now are considered luxeries. But it doesn't have to be that bad if we can accept a take charge type of attitude and learn to do more things for ourselves and our families - and that includes our pets as well.

Many pet owners really don't have much money, especially now, and this ultimately will trickle down to impact their health care decisions for their pets as well. It is just the way it is. Here are a few facts. Did you know that the average Vet visit will cost you 150 dollars or more. And what happens if your dog or cat needs some type of surgery? Then you are easily up to 500 dollars or more right away. So, what can you do to save your money in the event your pet becomes ill and still be able to afford to treatment?

Here are a few suggestions to help you and your pet in this horrible economy, or anytime for that matter. First of all, keep all your dogs as healthy as possible by preventing injuries or disease in the first place. There are several ways to do this but here is the top suggestion I have for dog owners.

1. Feed your pet a quality food that is gluten free. It is also important to note that you need to avoid pet foods that have corn or wheat as
the first ingredient.

2. Make some of your dogs food at home - there are many sources online to help you do this yourself.

3. Try adding some raw foods in your dogs diet. There are lots of sources online giving loads of information about what kinds of raw foods are safe for your dog.

4. Learn how to vaccinate your dog yourself and save money on routine vaccinations. Yes, it is important to vaccinate puppies and dogs but oftentimes vets may suggest dogs be vaccinated too often. Save yourself the cost of the vet visit plus the vaccination by buying the shots and giving them yourself. Don't just assume that you know the correct way to do this - have your veterinarian or another pet professional teach you the correct way to vaccinate your dog. Note: this may not be for everyone, especially those that are squeamish around needles.

5. There are other things you can learn to do as well if you are a do-it-yourselfer. If you can learn the basics of treating your dog at home for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries while using safe and simple home remedies, then you are well ahead of the rest. There are loads of natural remedies (such as black and green tea bags) and treatments (such as acupressure) that you can use at home and save yourself lots of money.

I have always felt that the best pet owners were the people who are the most informed. Learn what to do for your pet and then do it. It can be simple - and money saving too. Your pet, and your wallet, will
thank me too.