Life With a Dog: Easy Ways to Save on Vet Bills

 Life With a Dog: Easy Ways to Save on Vet Bills
original post:http://dogingtonpost.com/life-dog-easy-ways-save-on-vet-bills/#.UaSplkr6RvY
Written on 05/27/2013 by Brandy Arnold

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Parenting a dog requires a great deal of commitment – and expense. Not only does your pooch need your time and attention, he also has to be taken care of properly with veterinary care and other maintenance. Caring for a dog is not just about feeding, clothing, and giving him a home. You also have to provide for his vaccinations, medications, and other vet care expenses should he get ill or suffer from an injury.
How to Reduce Vet Care Expenses
Fortunately, there are simple ways that can help you cut the costly vet bills without having to sacrifice your dog’s well-being. As a matter of fact, the tips below will also help your pooch live a healthier and happier life.
Focus on preventive care.
1. Practice good hygiene. Because grooming can help prevent infection, start trimming your dog’s nails on a regular basis. Brush his teeth at least three times a week to keep him from developing plaque and gum disease.
2. Provide an excellent diet and adequate exercise. Keep your pup at his ideal weight. Remember that obesity often results in various orthopedic problems and several other health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Feed your dog a high-quality, nourishing diet and provide him with enough physical and mental stimulation.
3. Keep track on doggie vaccines and other preventives. Never wait for your pooch to be ill or get infested with parasites. Call the animal-control organization in your locality and check if there are low-cost vaccines and preventive shots available.
4. Consider neutering or spaying your pet. Not only will these procedures help you cut costs for severe medical conditions like testicular, breast, or uterine cancer, these preventive measures will also keep your dog from wandering or becoming aggressive, diminishing the risk of your pooch getting injured in a fight or hit by a car. Not to mention the costs associated with an accidental litter of puppies!
5. Dog-proof your house and yard. Protect your pet from potential household hazards by storing human medications in tightly closed containers, keeping chemicals like household cleaners out of his reach, keeping toxic plants away, and ensuring that the fence and gates in your yard are secure.
Win your vet’s heart.
1. Commit yourself to routine check-ups. Even if your pooch appears healthy, having him thoroughly examined on a regular basis will detect any health issue early. Early diagnosis usually means less costly treatment.
2. Inquire how you can save. Because many veterinary hospitals and clinics offer certain discounts or package deals for very young or very old pets, try asking about free drug samples or low-price shots available.
3. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Never leave your vet’s office without having a clear picture of your dog’s health. If your dog is dealing with a costly medical problem, knowing in advance what to expect in terms of treatment and expense gives you a chance to either budget and save, or explore alternative treatment options that are more affordable. Never, ever, ignore a problem in hopes that it will go away – this usually leads to a more severe, more expensive course of action in the end.
Check with local organizations.
Many counties offer low-cost vaccinations, spay and neuter clinics, and discounts for those with financial need. Check with local organizations and don’t be afraid to ask what’s available!