News Article - Caring for your pet during the recession

03 February 2010

Did you know that the average cost of owning a dog is about £800 a year? RSPCA figures reveal that calls from owners who cannot afford treatment for their pets has increased by 57% and that 52% more animals have been abandoned in 2009 compared to 2008.

No one is immune from the effects of the recession and we'd like to support our pet owning clients as best as we are able during these difficult times.

To ensure that keeping your pet healthy does not become too costly we recommend that you:

• Have an annual health check and vaccination for your pet cat, dog or rabbit. Paying to have your pet checked over once a year can save money in the long term - health problems can be spotted early and vaccination prevents serious diseases such as parvovirus in dogs, viral enteritis in cats or myxomatosis in rabbits which if not fatal can cost hundreds of pounds to treat.

• Keep your pet at fit and trim. Obesity can lead to (or contribute to the severity of) some debilitating and serious conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. Taking your dog for regular walks not only keeps him fit but helps you as well! If you are worried that your pet is becoming over-weight then contact us - the remedy may be easier and cheaper than you think!

• Take preventative action. It is much easier and cheaper to prevent problems such as skin irritations due to flea allergies or gastro-enteric problems due to worms. We're here to help advise you about the recommended and safe use of internal and external anti-parasite products for cats, dogs, rabbits and small furries!

• Take out pet insurance. Acute treatment may cost hundreds of pounds if your pet is for instance involved in a road traffic accident and fractures its leg. For chronic ongoing conditions like arthritis or heart disease the treatment needed for the life of your pet may also be very expensive.

• Join our Platinum Pet Club. For clients over the age of 60 the Platinum Pet Club costs £10 per year and covers two pets. You get a 10% discount on anything that you purchase from us and any treatment that is provided. Every little helps!

• Feed quality food. Higher quality food means better digestion; you will no longer have to feed as much because these foods generally contain better quality ingredients.

• Phone us for advice. Remember we are here to help - you may feel your pet can be left with a problem without seeing a vet, give us a call and we will do our best to advise you if the symptoms described are serious enough to warrant early examination. This is often a better option than leaving a problem until there is deterioration in your pet's condition.

• Animal charities. If owners are in receipt of benefits the RSPCA / PDSA or Blue Cross can sometimes help. Please inform us before seeing the vet if you think you will have problems paying your bill. The vet will always try to give you a detailed estimate of any treatment that is needed and we may be able to advise you if charity support is available or point you in the right direction for seeking help.

Finally - remember the Law!

The Animal Welfare Act was passed in 2006, it makes owners and keepers responsible for ensuring that the welfare needs of their animals are met. Not only is it against the law to be cruel to an animal, you must also ensure that all the welfare needs of your animals are met. Not having the financial means to look after your pet is not an excuse for not complying with the terms of the Act. Anyone who is cruel to an animal, or does not provide for its welfare needs, may be banned from owning animals, fined up to £20,000 and/or sent to prison.

You must make sure the following are provided:

• A suitable environment (place to live)
• A suitable diet
• Ensure your pet is able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns
• Ensure your pet is housed with, or apart from, other animals (if applicable)
• Ensure you pet is protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease

If you experience difficultly in caring for your pet due to a financial crisis there are a number of charities that may be able to help with the cost of treatment or provide advice and help if you think re-homing is the best option.

The RSPCA, Blue Cross, PDSA and Cats Protection League are the main charities involved but there are local independent charities that may be able to help too. If you think you have a problem then call for advice - don't leave it until your pet is in distress.