Cash-saving tips can benefit pets

Difficult economic times are putting pets at risk of abandonment. But the Humane Society of the United States cautions that forfeiting a pet can add up to bad news for pets and families.

In addition to providing unconditional love and affection, pets decrease stress, anxiety and feelings of loneliness, studies have shown. Sharing affection with a dog or cat also has proved to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Pets are credited with enhancing self-esteem and cognitive development in children. And children who own pets score significantly higher on empathy and pro-social orientation scales.

Older people who own dogs visit their doctor less frequently than those who do not. In a study of 100 Medicare patients, even the most highly stressed pet owners had 21 percent fewer physician contacts than those without pets.

Here are some tips for saving money on your pet’s needs:

→Shop around for necessary pet-care products. Research can reveal great deals online or in stores.

→Keep up with preventive veterinary care to keep your pet healthy and avoid costly problems. Let your vet know that finances are tight and ask that he or she prescribe only the most vital vaccinations or treatments. Discuss payment plan options before your appointment.

→Contact your local animal shelter and ask about free or low-cost vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries and other services.

→Keep your pets safe inside or on a leash while walking outside. Animals allowed to roam freely are more prone to accidents which result in costly veterinary bills.

→If you can’t afford pet food, check with your local food banks; many are providing pet food.