How to Save Big on Pet Supplies

Animals are a joy to have, but a visit to the store for pet supplies can run a higher bill than you anticipated. Whether your pet is a bird, reptile, cat, or dog, you'll need to buy food, toys, and cleaning products. There are a few tips that can help you save money when you make a trip to the store. From properly measuring meals to choosing a generic brand for your pet's medical needs, there's a way to keep your budget in positive numbers.

Measure Meals

When feeding pets, most people estimate how much to serve. While this may not be a problem for fish owners, those who own cats and dogs may be feeding their animal too much and spending extra money on food. To make sure you're properly feeding them the right amount, measure each meal. You'll likely realize that you've been oversupplying meals and won't need to restock quite as quickly.

Buy in Bulk

This is true of grocery shopping and pet supplies as well. Typically, items that are sold in larger quantities have a lower price. The next time you're browsing for rawhides, go for the more expensive bag with twice as many bones. Dog and cat owners can usually find pet supplies, like bones and kitty litter, in superstores that specialize in selling bulk items for less.

Use Coupons

Check online and at your local store for any coupon deals. Many coupons are offered for a variety of different brands, so there's a good chance you can find a discount price for your particular brand. Coupon sites like Coupon Mom can also be a great resource for finding coupons for sale items and discounts in your area.

Go Generic

Going generic for any medical needs can save you a bundle. It's helpful to do some shopping around before automatically purchasing the brand name products. Useful websites like PriceGrabber can help you compare costs side by side and find the best deal.

Make your own Toys and Treats

Toys and treats for dogs and cats can be expensive. If you're running low on your toy and treat budget, consider providing your own entertainment. A tennis ball in an old sock can provide mental stimulation and make a dog extremely happy. For a cat, a piece of string and a feather hanging off an old costume is all it takes to stimulate them into play mode. Making treats can be easy as well. Since you don't want to make your animal sick, familiarize yourself with which ingredients certain animals can't withstand (dogs and chocolate for example). It's also important to consult with your vet regarding any dietary restrictions for your animal. Visit the multitude of sites online dedicated to baking pet-friendly treats for recipes.

How to Keep Your Pets Safe in Every Weather

Do you have a pet? Do you want to give a healthy and happy life to your furry friend? Then here are some useful tips for pet owners including the precautions they need to take for their four legged friends. Pet ownership comes with a great responsibility. Caring for and owning a pet can give you a rewarding experience.

Below are some weather related tips for pet owners.

How to Protect your Pet during Winters

If the weather gets cold and wet, then you need to take extra precautions to ensure pets remain healthy.

1) Make sure your gates and walls are secure because heavy winter winds can knock down walls. So, give an opportunity to your pet to get out of there safely.

2) If it gets cold outside then make sure to keep your pet inside the house and cover your pet with woolens when taken out for exercise.

3) Pets need more food in the winter. So, regularly check with your vet clinic for the recommend food for your pet.

4) When the temperature is low, then you pet's tongue can freeze and stick to metal. Always use plastic food and water bowls instead of metal and be sure to keep its water container fresh and unfrozen.

5) Antifreeze may be good in smell and taste, but it can be dangerous to your pet. Keep it away from them.

How to Protect your Pet during Storms

1) Strong winds and saturated soil can topple fences. Keep your pets inside in a sheltered area.

2) Most of the pets get scared from light and thunder. It can cause them to bolt.

3) If your furry friend gets more anxious than talk to your veterinarian as early as possible for their good health.

How to Protect your Pet during Summers

Here are some tips for keeping your pet safe and cool this summer:

1) Don't leave your pet in a parked car.

2) Make sure to offer your pet a plenty of fresh water and avoid heat stroke.

3) When it is too hot, then do not allow exercising heavily as it can burn their paws. Early morning and the evenings are the best time for exercise.

4) Cats can also get sunburned just like us. So, ask veterinarian to provide you the best sunscreen for your pet. Cats have a light and sensitive skin. They need more protection while moving outside the house. Ensure that you take the relevant steps.

Follow these essential preventive pet care tips which help to optimize your pet's health against unpredictable weather.