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Tips for Pet Owners During Tough Times
If you find yourself pinching pennies during tough financial times, these tips and proper planning may help keep you and your pet happy, healthy and together even when times are tough.
 Veterinary Fees—An Ounce of Prevention:
Consider regular vet appointments and check-ups for your pet to head off problems before they become too great (and expensive to handle). There are several resources in San Diego that provide affordable spay/neuter, vaccination and microchip resources:
You may want to regularly set aside money in a savings account for pet-related expenses or consider purchasing Pet Health Insurance to help with those unexpected and more costly medical procedures. If an unexpected veterinary expense occurs, talk with your veterinarian to see if they offer payment plans as an option. If you still need assistance with veterinary expenses, visit our Financial Assistance Page for a list of resources.
Food and Supplies—Be Creative:
There are many sources for affordable pet food and supplies. If you are considering changing your pet’s food, talk with your veterinarian about what food might be affordable and right for your pet and the best method of switching foods. When looking for animal enrichment, remember that spending some extra time with your pet doesn’t cost you anything. It’s a great (and cheap) source of entertainment for both of you. Furthermore, homemade pet toys can be just as fun and entertaining as expensive ones.
Read more about Homemade Pet Toys>>
Two San Diego Humane Society organizations that might also able to help you by providing pet food and supplies are:
 Consider Housing Alternatives:
Research pet-friendly housing options. Remember that they may charge pet deposits and you may need to save ahead of time for this. If you can’t find a rental that will take you and your pet, contact friends and family to see if there is anyone who would be able to care for your pet until you are financially secure.
Here is a list of free and fee-based pet-friendly online apartment locators:
Giving Up Your Pet—Plan Ahead:
If you are experiencing financial difficulties and are at all concerned about being able to keep your pet, start planning ahead. If you must relinquish your pet, don’t wait until the last minute. Many shelters and rescue organizations have appointments and waiting lists and can better accommodate your pet’s needs with more notice. Crisis housing may be available at your local shelter for short periods of time and if you qualify for their program.
If you plan to find a home for your pet yourself, consider whether or not the new home is the right fit for your pet by asking questions about the environment they will be in, such as are there other pets or children in the home? Will the pet live indoors? Consider asking a small fee to avoid attracting people who are not interested in keeping your pet as a companion but who may want to use them for other resources.
If you have other questions or concerns, the San Diego Humane Society is here to help. Contact us at 619-299-7012 or at info@sdhumane.org. |
