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How to Save Money Without Compromising Your Dog’s Care

 

piggybankWhile people should understand and anticipate the costs of having a dog, unexpected events such as the loss of a job could make it challenging to afford a dog. In fact, research by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy found cost of ownership to be one of the top 5 reasons why pets were surrendered to shelters. Here are some suggestions on how to reduce costs without compromising your dog’s care.

Training Tips & Planner: Preparing Your Dog For The Big Day

Photo: Stacie

Photo: Stacie

As everyone knows, organizing a wedding takes time and planning; preparing your dog for your wedding day is no different. This training schedule will help your dog be ready in time for the big occasion.

12-16 Months Before

Now is the time to practice the basics: sit, stay, come, and most importantly to “check in” with you. Start with short training sessions (15 minutes) twice a day in a distraction-free area. Initially, you will likely need to use small pieces of a high value treat to shape and reward the desired behavior. Having trouble? Consider enlisting the services of a trainer now, to avoid issues and disappointment later.

Watch Out for Wasps

It’s that time of the year when grumpy wasps are flying about looking for a place to winter. This means that your dog could accidentally have a run in with one of them. What should you do if your dog gets stung by a wasp? First of all, try not to panic and remember that your dog will most likely be just fine. Having said that, wasp stings are painful and may swell. You can make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the area that was stung. You can also apply an ice pack intermittently. Watch your dog carefully for signs of a more serious reaction. If the swelling extends beyond the area that was stung, if your dog seems confused, has difficulty breathing, or is restless, you should take your dog to the vet right away. Don’t wait because your dog could be having an allergic...

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Pet Medical Alert Tag

Pet Medical Alert Tag Although Canada does not currently have a central registry that manages medical alert pet tags, you should still consider adding an alert tag to your pet’s collar if your dog or cat has medical issues. This way, if you get separated from your pet, whoever finds your furry friend will know that your pet has special needs. [caption id="attachment_1347" align="alignleft" width="150"] Photo Credit: Dog Tag Art[/caption] You could have the tag engraved with the words “takes medication” or “diabetic” as a caution. In the United States there are several organizations that provide medical alert pet tags and keep a registry of these pets. These registries were proven to be valuable when natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods struck certain parts of the U.S. Pets who were wearing these medical alert tags received the medical attention they required more quickly than if they had not been wearing them....

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