During these hard economic times, a fact in the news is very disturbing, the millions of pets being surrendered to shelters due to their pet owner's inability to provide feeding or veterinarian costs needed to care for their pets. Many of us can’t imagine this happening to themselves, but it can and we sometimes confuse the real cost of caring for a loved companion animal to merely the bag of food. Once faced with this dilemma, one should really think about raising their pet's level of wellness as to limit any extra costs in the future. Greater health levels alone will increase the animal's well-being, which in the long run will minimize any added expenses. What would be the first step? Logically selecting a higher quality diet alone will benefit the animals’ overall well-being, so let’s start there. So, we’re back to the age old question here at Viand, what are the actual costs of feeding your pet? They are the daily costs, not the bag. It can actually cost you much more to feed a low-grade diet, similar to feeding your family fast food everyday, the result can be lowering your health, obesity, and other associated issues. Why would you do that to your buddy, much less yourself?

So, even if you are not in this immediate situation, but know that a healthier animal is an easier, happier, and an animal requiring less care and concern, consider these few tips:

• bump up to a higher grade food consisting of specific meat meals, as they are more digestible and richer, resulting in lower feeding quantities. Don’t be fooled by grain-free diets as they use “meat,” which consists of liquid forms of meat, which are actually a minor component of the final product, which usually ends up being potatoes or some other starch.
• substitute (not on top of) some leftovers into their daily diet, greens, vegetables, meats (not heavily seasoned), limited amounts of rice or whole grains.
• make and feed chicken soup, one day a week (providing as much as they want) resulting in a forced detox/cleansing day. Usually, a day that you are home all day is easiest as you both can stay busy.
• if you’re thinking of adopting, smaller dogs, even 2 or 3 will require less of a financial commitment, versus a large breed.
• consider grooming costs when choosing a pet, since one that does not require grooming, costs substantially less.
• keep them active (good for you too).

I hope something listed here helped you, whether you are here needing help with a specific topic or just seeking some tips in keeping your pet healthy, thank you for visiting.

Scott