3 money-savers for pet owners
Issue Date: March 29, 2009
Animal Smart
Steve DALE
The nation’s economic woes have trickled down to even our furry family members. Here are some helpful cost-saving tips.
Search for discounts on food. Use coupons, especially if Fido eats premium pet food. Or slowly transition your pet to a less costly brand (you’ll avoid an upset tummy and potential vet bill) approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Seriously cash-strapped? Look for a pet food pantry, which offers low-cost or free food to the needy.
Find deals on medical services. Some shelters offer low-cost veterinary care, including low-cost or free spaying or neutering. Spaying or neutering is the responsible thing to do, and it may prevent costly medical issues. Also, big-box pet stores sometimes offer low-cost vaccinations. Know your pet’s vaccine history to avoid over-vaccinating.
Apply for a grant. If you’re in financial hardship and your pet goes to one of the nearly 3,000 American Animal Hospital Association-accredited clinics, you may qualify for a grant of up to $500 per year to pay for a specific procedure.
