Keeping your dog when you think you can't afford to may only require a little creativity. Consider these tips for cheaper dog care and for pet friendly housing.
I'm not an economist but I don't think it takes one to notice the skinnier pocketbook after bills are paid and purchases are made. It doesn't take an economist to notice the news about increasing foreclosures or the pets that are dropped off at shelters by owners claiming they "can't afford her anymore" or the news of possible recession. I've even heard of a few folks who've had an ingenious change of plans for the summer vacation this year. I'm fortunate that my home is paid for and that my dogs' needs are covered at employee discount but I still feel the bite in grocery, gasoline, and utility prices. It's hard to say what one would do in another's situation but I do know that I regard my dogs as family and that not many things in this world would separate me from them. In that vein, I have a few, hopefully helpful, tips for dog owning renters who have lost their homes to foreclosure and are faced with landlords who are not friendly to the idea of pets on their property. There are also ways to ease the costs of keeping a dog by learning how to do some things yourself and by discussing alternatives with your veterinarian or local shelter or low cost community clinic. Most of them are sympathetic and want to help you find ways to keep your pet.
