We all love our four-legged friends but they can be an expensive addition to the family, costing us around £13,000 over their lifetime! The animal experts at Armitage Pet Care offer their top tips for looking after your pooch without breaking the bank.
1) Change a dog’s life for the better
If you’re thinking about getting a dog, why not look into adoption? There are thousands of dogs in shelters in need of a good home. Rescue animals have often already been microchipped, vaccinated and neutered and can be yours for just a small donation to a brilliant cause.
2) Buy the right food
Like humans, dogs can be affected by allergies and intolerances, which can lead to lots of costly trips to the vets. Sometimes, simply changing their diet solves the problem. Foods such as Wafcol, which have been carefully formulated for sensitive stomachs, could be the solution! Buying in bulk also helps to save a pretty penny.
3) Use a pet-sitter rather than the kennels
When the kennels cost the same as a week in the sun, you might wonder if you should even go away! Try forming a circle of fellow pet owners and help each other out. Your dog will get to spend quality time with a person they’re already familiar with and you don’t have to fork out on the costly kennel bills.
4) A healthy dog is a happy dog
Cut down on expensive trips to the vets with preventive care. Keep on top of vaccinations and flea drops and make sure your dog gets plenty of regular exercise and has a good diet. As difficult as those eyes are to ignore, don’t turn your pup into a doggy dustbin! If you want to treat your pooch, there are plenty of options made with natural produce such as Good Boy’s new fish treat range.
5) DIY grooming
Professional grooming services can be pricey, so investing in the right tools and doing it yourself at home can be an easy way to reduce costs. Regular brushing will remove any matted or old hair, while wipe-downs after a muddy walk cut down on the need for baths.
