Owning a pet can be one of the most rewarding relationships in your life. Pets are loyal, loving and even provide health benefits for their owners, such as lower blood pressure and stress reduction. Unfortunately, pets can be expensive when you add up food costs, supplies and trips to the … [Read more...] about Does your pet need food stamps? Resources for pet care when you can’t afford it
Pets
8 ways to save money on veterinary care
When a close friend had a pacemaker implanted in her ailing Boston terrier, I was astounded. I knew that my friend loved her dog and that she could well afford that level of medical care, but the five-figure price tag of the pacemaker, surgery and follow-up still left me reeling.I … [Read more...] about 8 ways to save money on veterinary care
How to cut the cost of pet care
I hadn’t planned to get a new dog after my beloved Daphne died just short of her 15th birthday. However, I developed a bad habit of scrolling through the adorable faces of dogs up for adoption at my local Humane Society. As soon as I spotted Matilda and her huge ears, I had to jump in the car and … [Read more...] about How to cut the cost of pet care
Free, cheap and homemade gifts for pets
Even if you're on a tight budget, you can add your furry friends to your holiday gift list. Gifts for dogs and cats are inexpensive and super simple. You can even easily pull together homemade pet gifts from items that are already in your house.Food treats For a no-fuss dog gift, a fresh jar … [Read more...] about Free, cheap and homemade gifts for pets
Where to get a free photo with Santa Claus and your pet
Of course, your dog has been a very good dog this year! Just listen to what he tells Santa Claus.And you can capture the moment with a FREE photo of your pet with Santa at participating Petco and PetSmart locations. (Of course, your pet doesn't have to be a dog or cat. If your pot-bellied pig, … [Read more...] about Where to get a free photo with Santa Claus and your pet
10 cheap and easy Halloween costumes for pets
Perhaps your pet is participating in a Halloween parade. Or maybe she’s strutting her fluff at a mutt masquerade. Whether it’s for an event or just a fun family photo in the living room, sometimes pets allow you to dress them up.Stores and online retailers are stocked with adorable … [Read more...] about 10 cheap and easy Halloween costumes for pets
Holiday travel tips for you and your dog
Holiday travel is mostly about visiting family, but when dogs are involved, both visitor and host will benefit by laying some ground rules. Boarding your pet or paying a sitter is expensive, but saving money could come at the cost of a human relationship. You wouldn’t want your holiday to be ruined … [Read more...] about Holiday travel tips for you and your dog
Pet behavior help lines offer free tips and advice
You used to swoon when the kitties dived into the laundry as though it were their personal playground. And when the new puppy found the bag of dog food and helped himself, you took pictures. But as time goes on, the antics of your furry family members aren't quite as adorable.Perhaps your pooch … [Read more...] about Pet behavior help lines offer free tips and advice
Purina offers free cat or dog adoption for 55+
The unconditional love of a pet is priceless at any age. And, if you're 55 or older, the adoption itself is priceless -- thanks to Purina. The iconic pet food brand is committed to finding a loving home for all cats and dogs. However, it's even more important to find your new family member at a … [Read more...] about Purina offers free cat or dog adoption for 55+
Free pet safety tips for July 4 and more
Even if your fluffy friends usually accompany you when you’re out and about, leave them at home July 4. Most animals really don’t like fireworks, even at parties and picnics.That tp is from the Humane Society of the United States, which offers FREE pet safety information on various … [Read more...] about Free pet safety tips for July 4 and more
Kids’ crafts: Make a braided-rope dog toy
When it comes to kids' crafts, I like projects they can make and use rather than just make and throw away. During a recent sleepover in my house, I enlisted the help of two kids to try out one of the DIY projects I have bookmarked on Pinterest.Using fleece fabric left over from winter projects, … [Read more...] about Kids’ crafts: Make a braided-rope dog toy
7 tips for frugal pet ownership
Do you have a pet? If you're like 62% of Americans, you do. And get this: We pet owners--I've had my dog, Buffy, for 10 years -- will spend about $52 billion on our pets in 2012. That's just crazy.If you're reading this, clearly you are interested in ways to save money in all areas of your life. … [Read more...] about 7 tips for frugal pet ownership