Having a canine companion is worth it, but they cost a penny to maintain. You want your dog to be well-groomed, well-fed, happy, and bug-free. You also want your dog to live in a comfortable space. What if you’re living on a shoestring budget? With the right planning and smart choices, you can care for your dog, even on a budget. Here’s how.
Feeding Your Dog
Food is as basic for dogs as it is for humans. How do you ensure your dog is getting a balanced diet without going into debt? One of the best strategies is ensuring your dog is feeding on schedule. For example, you can split the amount between two to three meals depending on your dog’s needs and feeding schedule.
You can also save up while making food purchases. For example, you can choose to buy from quality but affordable brands. Buying in bulk could save up through bulk discounts and ensure a longer food supply. Lastly, you could explore making dog food at home. For example, you can incorporate safe human food into your dog’s diet.
Housing Your Dog
Your dog needs a safe, hygienic place to call home. While they may love to play in the yard or nap on your couch, providing a private space is as caring as possible. Yet building a house dog can be an unexpected expense that can overwhelm you. One of the ways you can manage this is by going DIY. You can make your dog’s bed and beddings using already available materials.
Regarding housing, explore cost-effective but safe options. You can reinvent the doghouse by using recycled shipping containers. Each time a container is reused, 3500kg of steel is recycled, thus preventing wastage and protecting the environment. Work with a recycling specialist to ensure the doghouse is warm and cozy because your dog deserves that.
Pampering
Like us, dogs need more than basic food and housing. They need entertainment and pampering; you can achieve this without breaking the bank. A good place to start is free dog events in your area. Pet ownership has increased by 20% since 1988, which means your neighborhood has plenty of dog buddies for your own.
When grooming your canine companion, prioritize essential supplies such as dog shampoo. You can make other essentials, such as toys and treats, at home using safe but readily available materials. Sometimes the best entertainment for your dog is your presence. Look for engaging free sports and activities you can do with your pet, which will increase engagement.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Happy
Regarding your dog’s health, never compromise. However, there’re some ways you can keep your dog healthy and happy even if you’re on a shoestring budget. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Prioritize regular exercise, a healthy diet, and vaccinations to keep your dog healthy.
Another proactive measure you can take is pet insurance. You’ll commit to paying a premium every month, which will protect your dog during emergencies. Besides, pet insurance will allow your dog access to preventative care, which is much cheaper than taking your dog to a veterinarian for treatment.
To bring it all together, you don’t need thousands to care for your dog. If you’re living on a budget, you can use careful planning and smart choices to ensure your dog is well-cared for. However, be prudent with where you want to be frugal, especially about your dog’s health.