M is for Money has a cute story about a freak accident that broke her pup's food dish. Go here to read the tale. Now that I am more than half way through my morning cup of coffee my brain started thinking about the various style dog bowls.
When I first got my fur baby I used a cereal bowl. Then after a trip to Ikea it changed to two bright green plastic bowls that I picked up for .39/each. They are the perfect size for her and hold just the right amount of food. I also don't worry about what would happen if they break because they were not expensive to begin with at all. Now, they are are not the cutest things on earth. There are a wide assortments of ways you can use a food dish to feed your pet, cereal bowls, gourmet style pet dishes, plastic, metal, ziploc containers, etc. Find one that works best for you and your pet just like M is for Money has done and you'll both be happy about your purchase.
Showing posts with label Pet costs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pet costs. Show all posts
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Breed does matter
Here at the Frugal Beagle I wrote the start of a series on adopting a dog called "So you want a Dog....
Recently, I was talking to my sister about our dogs. We both love beagles, a lot, enough where one day we hope to have a Beagle rescue. She was talking about this desire when the other person said to her " Be careful of adopting an adult dog from the pound". This person had a horrible experience with a dog she rescued. Mostly, because she decided she wanted the pretty dog and knew nothing about the breed. She chose a dog that did not fit her lifestyle and resulted in her not keeping the dog. The Minnesota Humane Society lists on their website why pets were turned in and often the reason is something that could have been avoided in the first place like "too big for an apartment". These are reasons that simple research could have brought their attention before they adopted. It's not cheap adopting a dog. Even a free dog is going to require a vet check up and basic supplies like food and a leash.
I also find it amusing how many people worry that if they adopt a dog from a rescue or shelter they will get "someone else's problem.". Here is what I say to that.
1. Puppies not given proper training will have behavioral problems. Has anyone else watched the Dog Whisperer or It's Me or the Dog? These are professional trainers that come into people's homes to work with the dog about bad behavior. All of those dogs they show are not bad dogs because that's just their personality. It's because their owners don't have set routines and don't enforce certain good behaviors.
2. Many rescues work to learn the dogs disposition and manners before placing them up for adoption. A solid rescue will disclose behavior problems along with if the dog gets a long with cats, other dogs and children. You will learn MORE about the dog than you would by just going to a breeder or pet store because someone has spent time with your to be pet.
3. You can teach an old dog new tricks. When I first got my dog she was not potty trained. Now she is and while it wasn't an easy process. It was well worth it.
4. A full grown dog is just that, you dont' have to guess how big they will get and go through various crates. You can get the right size on the first try.
5. Health problems will be known when you adopt them. I know this isn't always the case but chances are your dog may already be spayed or neutered. Your dog may have health problems but if you get them from a rescue they will tell you what those problems are and you can make that decision.
I am passionate about adopting adult dogs from shelters and rescue groups. At least consider it the next time you think about getting a new pet. It can be a very rewarded experience, if you do the proper research about what type of breed is best for you and don't just decide you want a Marley dog because it's cute.
Recently, I was talking to my sister about our dogs. We both love beagles, a lot, enough where one day we hope to have a Beagle rescue. She was talking about this desire when the other person said to her " Be careful of adopting an adult dog from the pound". This person had a horrible experience with a dog she rescued. Mostly, because she decided she wanted the pretty dog and knew nothing about the breed. She chose a dog that did not fit her lifestyle and resulted in her not keeping the dog. The Minnesota Humane Society lists on their website why pets were turned in and often the reason is something that could have been avoided in the first place like "too big for an apartment". These are reasons that simple research could have brought their attention before they adopted. It's not cheap adopting a dog. Even a free dog is going to require a vet check up and basic supplies like food and a leash.
I also find it amusing how many people worry that if they adopt a dog from a rescue or shelter they will get "someone else's problem.". Here is what I say to that.
1. Puppies not given proper training will have behavioral problems. Has anyone else watched the Dog Whisperer or It's Me or the Dog? These are professional trainers that come into people's homes to work with the dog about bad behavior. All of those dogs they show are not bad dogs because that's just their personality. It's because their owners don't have set routines and don't enforce certain good behaviors.
2. Many rescues work to learn the dogs disposition and manners before placing them up for adoption. A solid rescue will disclose behavior problems along with if the dog gets a long with cats, other dogs and children. You will learn MORE about the dog than you would by just going to a breeder or pet store because someone has spent time with your to be pet.
3. You can teach an old dog new tricks. When I first got my dog she was not potty trained. Now she is and while it wasn't an easy process. It was well worth it.
4. A full grown dog is just that, you dont' have to guess how big they will get and go through various crates. You can get the right size on the first try.
5. Health problems will be known when you adopt them. I know this isn't always the case but chances are your dog may already be spayed or neutered. Your dog may have health problems but if you get them from a rescue they will tell you what those problems are and you can make that decision.
I am passionate about adopting adult dogs from shelters and rescue groups. At least consider it the next time you think about getting a new pet. It can be a very rewarded experience, if you do the proper research about what type of breed is best for you and don't just decide you want a Marley dog because it's cute.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Pet Sitting
Currently right now I am pet sitting for my co-worker. She has quite the zoo which consists of a parrot, 2 dogs, 3 cats and fish. Add to that my pup and you can see I definitely have my hands full! However, I love it and enjoy every moment.
It did get me thinking though, what do you do when you go on vacation with your pet? There are several options to choose. Here are the ones I thought of while brainstorming.
1. Have a friend or family member watch your pet. This is my personal favorite.
2. Kennel or Pet resort
3. Pet sitting service
4. Bring your pet with you
Obviously each option has a certain level of cost and planning involved with it. Most kennels require proof of recent vaccinations as do Pet sitting services. Time is a large factor including how long you will be away and what hours the kennel or pet service are available. The biggest factor for us frugals would be cost. Friends or family would be the cheapest of the options because you could negotiate with them. I often trade services such as you watch my dog for x days and I will watch yours for x days. You could also agree on a minimum amount you pay per day, say $5.00. Here are some factors I use to determine what the best agreement would be.
1. Will it require you to go to their house or will their pet come to yours?
2. How many days?
3. How many pets you will be watching? One dog is very different than 2.
4. Does your pet have special needs like medicine or allergies?
5. How well do they get along with your pets?
If anyone else has any input please leave a comment!
It did get me thinking though, what do you do when you go on vacation with your pet? There are several options to choose. Here are the ones I thought of while brainstorming.
1. Have a friend or family member watch your pet. This is my personal favorite.
2. Kennel or Pet resort
3. Pet sitting service
4. Bring your pet with you
Obviously each option has a certain level of cost and planning involved with it. Most kennels require proof of recent vaccinations as do Pet sitting services. Time is a large factor including how long you will be away and what hours the kennel or pet service are available. The biggest factor for us frugals would be cost. Friends or family would be the cheapest of the options because you could negotiate with them. I often trade services such as you watch my dog for x days and I will watch yours for x days. You could also agree on a minimum amount you pay per day, say $5.00. Here are some factors I use to determine what the best agreement would be.
1. Will it require you to go to their house or will their pet come to yours?
2. How many days?
3. How many pets you will be watching? One dog is very different than 2.
4. Does your pet have special needs like medicine or allergies?
5. How well do they get along with your pets?
If anyone else has any input please leave a comment!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Utilizing What You Have on Hand
While reading a deal over at It's Hip to Save it reminded me of ways you can turn items you may already have on hand into ones for your pup.
She posted the following deal on a backpack at Land's End. I thought to myself, well that is a cute little backpack too bad my nieces don't need one yet. It did make me think well wait, I already use a backpack to carry my dog's stuff around. I got a backpack last year at CVS during their 90% back to school items, I think it was 1.90. I pack all of my dogs stuff into and it's an easy way to make sure all of her stuff is in one place. It's great! The multiple pockets mean I can organize her items with what I need on hand for a potty stop versus when we get to our final destination. You could even use it for days at the park. Throw a bottle of water, a few extra plastic bags, toys and any other items you need on hand. Chances are you already have one on hand, and if not get one during the after school clearance sales or snag the one from Land's End.
She posted the following deal on a backpack at Land's End. I thought to myself, well that is a cute little backpack too bad my nieces don't need one yet. It did make me think well wait, I already use a backpack to carry my dog's stuff around. I got a backpack last year at CVS during their 90% back to school items, I think it was 1.90. I pack all of my dogs stuff into and it's an easy way to make sure all of her stuff is in one place. It's great! The multiple pockets mean I can organize her items with what I need on hand for a potty stop versus when we get to our final destination. You could even use it for days at the park. Throw a bottle of water, a few extra plastic bags, toys and any other items you need on hand. Chances are you already have one on hand, and if not get one during the after school clearance sales or snag the one from Land's End.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
April Spending Update
I stopped at Target today in hopes of finding great Easter clearance deals. Picking was slim but I still found some deals.
I got a stuffed duck for .99 originally 3.99. Although, it is cute I might give it to my niece. Although, my pup might steal it before I get a chance. She likes to ruffle through the bags to "find" if I got anything for her.
Then I found some wet dog food on clearance for .75 cents for a two pack. I don't recall the brand off hand.
I almost bought her some more treats but the price point was okay, not great. I decided to just skip it this week.
So total spent on her .99+.75=1.74+5.09=6.83
All of it was paid for with a gift card I got last week through the Gillete Razor deals.
I got a stuffed duck for .99 originally 3.99. Although, it is cute I might give it to my niece. Although, my pup might steal it before I get a chance. She likes to ruffle through the bags to "find" if I got anything for her.
Then I found some wet dog food on clearance for .75 cents for a two pack. I don't recall the brand off hand.
I almost bought her some more treats but the price point was okay, not great. I decided to just skip it this week.
So total spent on her .99+.75=1.74+5.09=6.83
All of it was paid for with a gift card I got last week through the Gillete Razor deals.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Monthly Total Update
I broke my Target fast today. I sat out almost all of lent. The Gillette deal this week was too much for me to pass up!
While in Target I decided to check out how much the Pedigree Dentastix would be with my 2.50 coupon. They were on temporary price cut at my store for 3.39! I could only use one coupon during the transaction. My cashier was very insistent that she could only use one. I didn't fight it because there were lines and it's not hard to just have them void off the other one. Just a word of caution, if you are planning on doing this deal.
3.39-2.50 off coupon=.89
Then I bought another pack of the Dentastix at Walgreens to bring my total up enough so I could use my 3.50 RR. I'll just my total oop cost of 1.04 as the Dentastix cost.
Previous total 3.16+.89=4.05+1.04=5.09
While in Target I decided to check out how much the Pedigree Dentastix would be with my 2.50 coupon. They were on temporary price cut at my store for 3.39! I could only use one coupon during the transaction. My cashier was very insistent that she could only use one. I didn't fight it because there were lines and it's not hard to just have them void off the other one. Just a word of caution, if you are planning on doing this deal.
3.39-2.50 off coupon=.89
Then I bought another pack of the Dentastix at Walgreens to bring my total up enough so I could use my 3.50 RR. I'll just my total oop cost of 1.04 as the Dentastix cost.
Previous total 3.16+.89=4.05+1.04=5.09
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Monthly Totals
As a part of trying to figure out how much I spend on my dog every year. Here is what I bought this week specifically for her.
2 squeeky toys marked to 75% off at CVS=.38 each for a total of .76
originally 1.50 each.
-I used a CVS gift card to pay for the entire transaction plus .92 oop.
5 Little Cesear dog foods @ 4.00-2(.80) coupons=2.40
I used a buy 1/1 get one coupon I printed off, along with a buy 2/get 1 free from the inserts last week.
Total: .76+2.40=3.16
2 squeeky toys marked to 75% off at CVS=.38 each for a total of .76
originally 1.50 each.
-I used a CVS gift card to pay for the entire transaction plus .92 oop.
5 Little Cesear dog foods @ 4.00-2(.80) coupons=2.40
I used a buy 1/1 get one coupon I printed off, along with a buy 2/get 1 free from the inserts last week.
Total: .76+2.40=3.16
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Cost of Pet Ownership
Over at Her Every Cents Counts, she has a blog post about the costs of pet ownership. Within the article it sites a 2001 survey that estimates the costs as this
Dogs cost about $730 per year.
Cats cost about $355 per year.
Rodents cost about $160 per year.
A tank of fish costs about $200 per year.
Birds cost about $770 per year.
Lizards cost about $745 per year.
Snakes cost about $520 per year."
Since this was in 2001, now 8 years old, we can only assume these costs have increased. Although, given current economic conditions they probably are not as high as they might have been in say 2007. Anyway, I'm not an economist I just follow what my own price points are telling me. I can say that I have noticed an increase in the cost of pet food, which is probably related to overall increase in food prices. For instance when Iams Premium Protection was first introduced it was 4.99 a 4lb bag. Three months later it was 7.99. Now the 3 dollar price hike was probably for a variety of reasons but still that's a rather large jump for a 4lb bag of dog food that is going to last maybe a week.
Now I am not going to get into the argument of is the cost worth it. My position on this is obvious as I am a pet owner. But in a way I find the "it's too expensive" argument to be similar to the "child are too expensive" argument. Yes, it will cost you money. Does it cost you exactly what the estimates above show? Well that depends on several things. The biggest I think is your own spending style. For instance, if you like to buy yourself accessories and stay on top of the latest trends and styles are you going to let your dog wear the same collar for it's entire life? Maybe, but chances are you will probably buy them several. I know this because my own sister has bought her beagle more collars than I care to count. Does this mean she is wrong in doing so? No. It just means that her costs of pet ownership are probably going to be higher than someone who buys one collar and that is the only collar their dog will ever have for it's lifetime. I know that my first year of pet ownership I spent a lot more $730 dollars thanks to vet bills alone. But now I am curious as to what my cost of pet ownership is going to come in at for the year. So starting in April, I am going to track my monthly pet costs right here on Frugal Beagle.
I hope that with this blog you can find ways to enjoy pet ownership without breaking the bank. Even if you are not a pet owner but a pet lover, there are still ways you can give back to the pet community without breaking your budget.
Dogs cost about $730 per year.
Cats cost about $355 per year.
Rodents cost about $160 per year.
A tank of fish costs about $200 per year.
Birds cost about $770 per year.
Lizards cost about $745 per year.
Snakes cost about $520 per year."
Since this was in 2001, now 8 years old, we can only assume these costs have increased. Although, given current economic conditions they probably are not as high as they might have been in say 2007. Anyway, I'm not an economist I just follow what my own price points are telling me. I can say that I have noticed an increase in the cost of pet food, which is probably related to overall increase in food prices. For instance when Iams Premium Protection was first introduced it was 4.99 a 4lb bag. Three months later it was 7.99. Now the 3 dollar price hike was probably for a variety of reasons but still that's a rather large jump for a 4lb bag of dog food that is going to last maybe a week.
Now I am not going to get into the argument of is the cost worth it. My position on this is obvious as I am a pet owner. But in a way I find the "it's too expensive" argument to be similar to the "child are too expensive" argument. Yes, it will cost you money. Does it cost you exactly what the estimates above show? Well that depends on several things. The biggest I think is your own spending style. For instance, if you like to buy yourself accessories and stay on top of the latest trends and styles are you going to let your dog wear the same collar for it's entire life? Maybe, but chances are you will probably buy them several. I know this because my own sister has bought her beagle more collars than I care to count. Does this mean she is wrong in doing so? No. It just means that her costs of pet ownership are probably going to be higher than someone who buys one collar and that is the only collar their dog will ever have for it's lifetime. I know that my first year of pet ownership I spent a lot more $730 dollars thanks to vet bills alone. But now I am curious as to what my cost of pet ownership is going to come in at for the year. So starting in April, I am going to track my monthly pet costs right here on Frugal Beagle.
I hope that with this blog you can find ways to enjoy pet ownership without breaking the bank. Even if you are not a pet owner but a pet lover, there are still ways you can give back to the pet community without breaking your budget.
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