Charlotte Reed, Pet ExpertPet Etiquette Tips

Maintaining Pets in the Current
Economic Environment

In this election year, Americans are confronted with rising costs of basic essentials, saving energy and preserving our planet. Pet owners are also confronted with these same issues. Many dog and cat owners are looking for financially creative and healthier ways to take care of their pets.

If you’re a cat owner, chances are cat litter is one of your top purchases. With consumers eager to help the planet, cat litter is a great place to be environmentally friendly. Choose a cat litter that’s biodegradable and made with natural ingredients, like Arm and Hammer Essentials Clumping cat litter. It’s made with 100 percent natural, biodegradable corn fibers that absorb twice the liquid compared to regular clumping clay litter! And the litter is combined with Arm and Hammer Baking Soda to eliminate tray odors instantly and help keep your home naturally odor-free which is great for tight spaces.

If you are a dog owner looking to cut back on costs, consider washing and grooming your dog at home rather than going to the groomers. The HydroSurge RapidBath pet bathing system gets a cleaner dog in just 3 minutes. It features the same technology used by professional groomers and offers a relaxing massaging action that dogs love. The RapidBath pet bathing system combines a constant supply of fresh water, shampoo and air to deep clean the dog’s coat by washing way dirt, loose hair and dander. Its one-handed operation means there is no scrubbing needed!

Although we don’t like to think about it, with today’s tight economy many pet owners can no longer keep their pets and are abandoning them. If you looking to help out one of these pets, you can go to a shelter and take home an abandoned animal and give it the love it deserves. Or if you are strapped for cash and are thinking of leaving your pet, work out an agreement with a friend. See if they are willing to take your pet, while you work out your finances. Pet owners can try to work out a payment schedule with the vet’s office or kennel so they can make smaller payments to afford the services.

Don’t forget about your pets in today’s tight economy -- look for ways to help the planet, save money and keep pets happy!