Pet Care Articles

Courtesy of Emily Glazer from the Wall Street Journal...

Since 2008, pet food, veterinary care and other services have gone up about 4% on average annually, according to a 2011 Consumer Reports study.  The following tips are some ways to lower your costs.
 
1) Read food labels since you may be paying more for specific wording. The study suggests bypassing anything deemed "premium" and searching for food labeled "complete & balanced," "total nutrition" or "100% nutritious," which will meet the minimum standards for nutrition set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials, which helps regulate the sale of animal food and medicines. Premium brands with similar nutritional value can cost nearly 85% more per pound, the study found.
 
2) There's now more competition—translation, lower prices—in the market for flea-and-tick protection products because the patent on one of the active ingredients used has expired, says Bob Vetere, president of the American Pet Products Association.  You'll likely find a cheaper price for a specific brand by shopping on websites such as PetCareRx.com, 1800PetMeds.com and drsfostersmith.com—rather than at the veterinarian or a pet store—says Consumer Reports.
 
3) When it comes to finding a vet, shop around. Ask what the physical exam fee is and what it includes. Some animal shelters offer spaying or neutering services free or at a discount, Mr. Vetere says. Some towns host free vaccination clinics, especially for rabies.