Veterinary bills can be a significant part of your pet-care budget if you own a dog in Honolulu. According to a recent poll by USA Today, the average dog owner spends over $500 each year on veterinary care–and that figure excludes emergency care or treatment for chronic medical conditions. Luckily, there are ways to spend less on Veterinary Care in Honolulu. Here are some smart ways to keep your dog healthy without breaking the bank.
Get a Regular Veterinarian and Check in Often
It pays to develop a relationship with a good veterinarian. Just like people, dogs need frequent physicals to make sure they’re healthy; canines are extremely susceptible to chronic conditions like diabetes, epilepsy and heart disease. If they aren’t diagnosed early, these treatable ailments can end up costing pet owners a lot of money in the long run. Find reputable Veterinary Care in Honolulu for your pooch, and go there for check-ups twice each year.
Invest in a Good Dog Food
The bargain-priced kibble on your grocery store’s shelves can seem like a great deal, but you’re not doing your dog’s health any favors by scrimping on costs. Instead, invest in a premium kibble or wet or raw food that uses only top-notch ingredients and is minimally processed. Avoid any dog foods that feature meat by-products, corn or soy fillers or artificial preservatives. Over time, these unhealthy add-ins can lead to obesity, cancer, and other canine ailments.
Get Pet Insurance
When an accident or medical emergency occurs, pet insurance can literally be life-saving. Most policies are relatively inexpensive, and they cover a significant portion of veterinary check-ups, emergency treatments and even pet medications. Pet insurance is especially beneficial if you have a purebred dog that is genetically predisposed to certain diseases or conditions.
Keep Vaccinations Up-to-Date
Always make sure your pooch is always up-to-date on his vaccinations. Your veterinarian can tell you the recommended course of shots your dog needs depending on where you live and the activities your dog is involved in. For example, a dog that spends a lot of time in tick-infested areas may need more frequent protection against Lyme disease. Timely vaccinations can save you a bundle on Veterinary Care in Honolulu.
Veterinary Care in Honolulu can be expensive, but there are ways to lower costs. A good vet, proper preventative care and a healthy diet can significantly lower the yearly medical costs for your dog.