Step 1 -
You can learn to do some of the things yourself. Some of the things that you may pay a veterinarian or professional groomer $10-$50 per occurrence you can certainly learn to do on your own. Yes, it is true, some will take practice and a lot of patience, but the time is well worth it. Consider the following list:
- bathing your dog
- trimming toe nails
- cleaning ears
- expressing anal glands
Keep that annual vet appointment.
Routine care can help prevent a costly sickness or problem later. Many of the tests, exams, procedures that veterinarians do as part of the routine annual exam, can help screen for other issues that can cost a lot of money later to treat and diagnose. So while you think you are saving money now by cancelling, you are really adding it on to the visit later to the emergency clinic.
Step 3 -
Educate yourself about what your pet is eating. Obesity is one of the worst issues in pets (yeah, just like people). Feeding your pet a "PREMIUM" diet food is not always the solution. Talk to your veterinarian or other pet care professional and have them help you learn to read pet food labels. Premium is not always better.
Step 4 -
Spay and Neuter. A spayed or neutered pet is a healthier pet. There are many problems associated with a pet that is not spayed or neutered; testicular caner in males and mammary tumors in females...Spay or Neuter your pet as soon as it is old enough or when your veterinarian recommends it.
and Step 5 -
Vaccinate. Yes it is true that there are some "potential" risks in vaccinating pets. The benefits FAR out way the risks. Pets can catch many diseases that can have devastating effects on them; diseases that have vaccines (Parvovirus, Distemper, Leptosporosis, etc...) These diseases can lead the death in pets, especially the young and unvaccinated.
This list is in no way the be all end all, but it is a great place to start. Owning a pet can be expensive, but just remember there are a lot of ways to help reduce the cost. Good luck to you!
