Four Ways That You Can Keep Pet Care Costs Down
If you're like other pet owners, you naturally want to make sure that your furry friend enjoys the best possible quality of life -- and this means providing it with consistent and professional veterinary care. However, you probably also want to do what you can to help keep pet care costs down. Fortunately, there are strategies that you can use to keep vet bills from climbing higher than you'd like. Here are four ways to lower your veterinary costs.
Schedule Regular Vet Visits
Although it may seem counterproductive at first glance, the truth is is that scheduling regular vet visits can result in lower overall pet care costs. The reason for this is that a comprehensive checkup can reveal health issues that haven't yet become serious enough to require costly treatment procedures. Your vet can also devise a customized preventative treatment program for your pet designed to keep it in good health. If you've got a breed that's prone to developing canine diabetes, such as a Basset hound, your vet may suggest a special diet to keep your canine companion's blood sugar levels from getting out of control.
Don't Allow Your Pet to Roam
Pets that are allowed to roam are at far more risk for becoming injured or catching a contagious health condition than those who are confined to your property. Traffic, urban wildlife, unkind humans, and other loose domestic pets all pose potential safety and health risks. However, this doesn't mean that you should keep your dog tied up constantly. A sturdy dog run with a covered area where your pet can get shelter from the weather is far preferable to keeping your animal on a chain.
Keep Domestic Pets Indoors at Night
As urban wildlife such as coyotes, raccoons, and even black bears become increasingly common in residential areas, domestic pets are at particular peril when left outdoors at night. Most wildlife species are more active after the sun goes down, and most domestic pets don't stand a chance in an encounter with any of these creatures, and vet bills for a pet that has been severely injured are extremely high.
Protect Your Pet From Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks both carry disease, and fleas in particular can cause a dog or cat to scratch until areas of the skin become infected. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms, and ticks can transmit Lyme disease to your pet. Your vet can suggest a good flea and tick prevention program designed to meet the needs of your particular pet.