When you have a dog, it is only a matter of time you will be caring for your senior dog. Older dogs sometimes need care that can add up and be expensive. Veterinarian bills, medications, special food, vitamins, supplements and toys can add up quickly. Of course, we only want the best care for our senior dog. Fortunately, there are many ways you can save money while still making sure your senior pet gets everything they need for a wonderful life. Read on for tips on how to care for your senior dog care!
First, you may not be sure your dog is in the senior dog category. If so, read How Old is My Dog?
Search for Deals
When it comes to nearly any supply your pet needs, your first step should always be looking for the best deal. This might mean finding sales or coupons, buying in bulk, or looking for cash back offers. Certain stores even have offers for free gifts when you make a purchase. Finding ways to buy new items at lower prices will make a big difference.
You can also consider picking items up second-hand. For example, you may be able to find a gently used pet ramp online at a reasonable price. This kind of item isn’t likely to be too affected by usage, so you shouldn’t see a big drop in quality. However, for some items, such as leashes, it’s usually best to buy new. You don’t want to wind up with a worn down leash and risk having it break, which could lead to an escape.
Consider Pet Insurance
Just like humans, pets tend to need more medical care as they get older. Caring for your pet’s health can become costly, and many pet owners struggle with the expense. There are few words that can explain the heartbreak of needing to turn down a medical procedure because you don’t have money to fund it.
One way to avoid costly medical expenses is to invest in pet insurance. This will help cover some of the major medical expenses, and save you from having to make critical decisions in the event of an emergency. You can get different plans depending on your pet’s needs. Talk with your vet to see what kind of coverage you should consider.
Set Up a Savings Account
In addition to pet insurance, it’s a good idea to have an emergency vet fund set aside for your older pet. Most pet insurance is paid out through reimbursement, meaning you usually still need cash up front for procedures. If you have money set aside, you won’t have to scramble if that day does come.
Set yourself a savings goal and put away a little bit each month until you reach it. Keep emergencies in mind, they can always happen. Start a savings plan when your dog is young to always be prepared.
Keep Them Active
Senior dogs still need lots of play, although they may not have the energy or dexterity to play like they once did. For example, your pup may not run as much as before, but he can still play in the yard. Encourage play by getting out with your senior pal and toss around a favorite toy. If you want something new, try cutting treat-sized holes in a plastic soda bottle to create a homemade puzzle feeder, or one of many other easy-to make at home toys. These simple, low-cost ways to have fun with your pet will engage their sense of play and help keep them happy and stimulated.
A key part of keeping your dog active is taking care of their joint health. Just like humans, senior pets are prone to the painful joint disease of arthritis as they age. This is why it is so important to maintain your pet’s joint health.
Glyde Mobility Chews
Many ask what is the best senior dog food for arthritis? Or what is the best senior dog supplements with arthritis joint problems? The answer is they should have any dog food they already enjoy, with an added joint supplement like Glyde™ Mobility Chews.
Supplements like Glyde promote healthy joints so your dog enjoys more youthful mobility for a longer time. High-quality, natural supplements for senior dogs aren’t cheap. Look for strong key ingredients, such as New Zealand green lipped mussel (GLM), glucosamine and chondroitin in your joint supplements. Remember, just as with most things, you get what you pay for. If you try and skimp on something as important as this, you may not get the results you want for your dog. Consider signing up for an auto-ship subscription as a smart way to save. This way, you save money on every order, and shipping is free.
Another way to save is to sign up for the loyalty program, Glyde Rewards. It gives you points for every purchase. Accrue points from purchases and save your earned points to get a free jar of Glyde, or use them to save $10, $20, $30 or more on future purchases
Senior pets need us to do what’s best for them and for us. Make sure you’re considering these financial decisions, so you’ll be able to support your furry friend. By following a plan, focusing on finding deals, and using available resources at your disposal, you’ll be able to make sure you can comfortably support your senior pet’s needs.
— Submitted by Special Guest Columnist Cindy Aldridge, a writer from "Our Dog Friends."
