Pets are such an important part of our family and, even facing into a cost-of-living crisis, keeping them healthy and happy is the number one priority for millions of families.
Pets at Home are sharing their top tips to help owners do the very best for their pets within their household budget.
Dr Karlien Heyrman, Head of Pets at Pets at Home, said: “Pet ownership is such a rewarding experience, but we know it isn’t always easy, particularly with the current rising cost-of-living. That’s why our pet experts are here to help and provide essential support.
“There are easy steps owners can take to help keep costs down and stay on top of their pet’s health and wellbeing. We always say prevention is better than cure and offer help to owners in a number of ways, including sharing our expertise and offering products and services that can help save money each month. We want to put owners’ minds at ease that they are doing the right thing for their pet.”
Pets at Home is also helping those owners whose circumstances may change and that might need a little more support as a result. The Pets at Home Foundation is the largest grant giving organisation to animal and pet rescues in the UK and provides essential support to charities, rescue centres and food banks across the country. One recent project has seen the Foundation help the RSPCA to support pet owners by providing food for their pets through community food banks.
Pets at Home is also providing support for owners who have welcomed an adoption pet into their family. When an owner with a rescue pet joins its VIP Club they receive a Pet Rescue Companion pack filled with tips for caring for your adopted pet as they settle into their new home.
Dr Heyrman added: “When times are tough, our pet friends are there for us, and we know how important it is to support owners in navigating the challenges that many are facing.
“We believe in making pet care affordable for every owner, whatever their budget, and at every step of their pet ownership journey – from puppies and kittens through to older friends. Our work with the Pets at Home Foundation also enables us to support charity and rescue partners to provide that extra helping hand to owners when they need it.”
Dr Karlien Heyrman has shared these six top tips for owners.
Keep on top of your pet’s healthcare
When it comes to healthcare, prevention is always easier and more affordable to manage than a cure, so there are things you can do to help keep your pet happy and healthy.
This includes checking that your pet’s annual vaccinations are up to date to protect them against harmful diseases they could pick up. Also, having a regular treatment routine in place is the best way to protect your pet from fleas and worms – without this, infestations can quickly happen and can lead to further health problems.
Vet costs can be spread across the year with a health care plan that includes vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and a health check. Or Pets at Home offers a subscription service, which gives tailored flea and worm treatments from £4 a month delivered for free and which you can administer at home.
Take advantage of free expert advice
Navigating cost cutting without sacrificing on your pet’s health can be daunting and confusing at times, so make the most of the free expert advice available to you.
Pets at Home offers free nutrition consultations with dietary experts in-store who can help you find the right food for your pet within your budget. They can also offer guidance on safely switching to cheaper options, without unsettling your pet, as well as offering a no-quibble money-back guarantee on all own brands.
The pet care specialist also runs free 30-minute My Pet Pal workshops during the weekends of the school holidays to educate children on responsible pet ownership, giving them the chance to meet small animals and learn how to properly care for their pets through interactive activities.
Keep a close eye on portion control
Pet food is one of the largest costs owners face and they will never see their pet go without.
Measuring your pet’s food helps to ensure nothing goes to waste and that you aren’t over or under-feeding your pet. Weighing food out is the best way to do this accurately to ensure you have the correct amount for your pet’s size and weight at every mealtime, but you can also use a measuring cup.
A ‘complete’ food should always be the preferred option of food as this provides your pet with all the nutrients they need to keep them active and healthy.
Search out special offers
Signing up to loyalty schemes is a great way to receive regular offers and make big savings on your pet’s favourite food, treats, accessories, and toys. Pets at Home, for example, has a free VIP (Very Important Pet) Club, which gives customers an introductory 10% discount online plus 10% off in-store, as well as regular tailored offers.
Keep grooming in check
Regular grooming at home will save money by helping to avoid bigger health complications down the line. Brushing their fur regularly each week helps to get rid of excess shed hair and avoid matting.
Keeping up with regular maintenance grooms with a trained dog groomer will also help to reduce the need for longer professional grooms, which can be more costly. Pets at Homes’ Groom Room offers expert advice for owners on how to keep on top of your pet’s grooming needs.
