Tips On How To Be A Financially Smart Pet Owner By Harrison Forbes
Harrison Forbes, Nationally Renowned Pet Expert and Animal Behaviorist, Shares Tips on How to be a Financially Smart Pet Owner With unemployment on the rise and the economy becoming more unstable every day, people are more stressed than ever. In these tough economic times, turning to a furry friend for unconditional love and support can be the best kind of therapy. In fact, a study from the University of New York, Buffalo found that pets can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure. But when you’re trying to trim everyday costs, how does an existing or new pet fit into the household budget? Pet expenses like food and veterinary costs – not to mention luxuries like doggie sweaters, booties, and gourmet treats – can really add up. How can you balance the benefits of pet ownership with being financially responsible? Nationally renowned pet expert and animal behaviorist Harrison Forbes can offer your readers/viewers the following tips on how to be a financially smart pet owner.
13 years ago 
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- Preventative care is a must. Although it may seem like you’re shelling out a lot of money in the short term, it’s worth it to pay for the general check-ups to avoid larger, more complicated veterinarian bills down the road.
- Find low-cost veterinary and vaccination clinics near you. Animal shelters, humane societies and other organizations often offer discounted medical services.
- Buy food in bulk whenever possible, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for sales. And to save even more, try baking your own dog biscuits. It’s fun, easy, and the kids can help!
- Take advantage of seasonal sales—many retailers discount pet products at the end of summer and/or winter.
- Don’t pay for an expensive kennel or pet sitter. Instead, organize a pet-sitting co-op with friends and neighbors.
- Learn how to groom your own dog or cat. Doing basic grooming like bathing and nail trims at home can save you money and help you stretch out the time between visits to the groomer.
- An afternoon outing with the family can get expensive pretty quickly; even if it’s just going to the movies (in some cities it can cost a family of four upwards of $40 to go to the movies…even before popcorn!). Instead, take your family and pets to a pet-friendly park. It’s not only free, it’s a great way to spend quality time together and get some exercise.
- Make sure your pet is protected in the event of an accident. Give yourself peace of mind that your pet – and your finances – will be taken care of in case of an accident.
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