New Year’s resolutions around saving money and better budgeting never go out of style. If you’re looking to improve your finances in 2021, Healthy Paws has advice on how to make savvier spending decisions for your furry friend that keep both your wallet and your pet happy and healthy:
1. Keep your pet at a healthy weight. If your pet is overweight, they are at an increased risk for many conditions – from diabetes to respiratory diseases – that result in high vet bills.
2. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly. Veterinarians recommend daily dental care, as it helps prevent oral illnesses and their respective bills.
3. Avoid hard toys. Your pet could break, chip, or crack a tooth or even choke. Removing hard toys help prevent an emergency vet visit.
4. Protect your pet with vaccinations. Many illnesses are easily preventable nowadays with vaccines.
5. Spay or neuter your pet. Besides being the responsible choice, spaying or neutering can help head off other medical issues – from decreasing the risk of testicular cancer in male pets and lessening the chance of contracting breast cancer and uterine infections in female pets.
6. Purchase pet insurance. Emergency care is the most expensive, not to mention stressful, of medical costs. When the unexpected happens, having pet insurance allows you to focus on what’s most important – your pet’s recovery.
7. Hang out with your pet. Not only does this boost your mood and theirs – it saves you money in the long run. Instead of an online shopping spree, take your pet on a walk, visit a new trail, or teach them a new trick.