Technically, the recession in the United States started in late 2007 and ended in the summer of 2009. But with unemployment officially at 9.1 percent (the “real” rate is above 16 percent), the Dow losing nearly 900 points in the past three weeks, and more Americans living in poverty now than in the past 20 years, some economists say we are headed for “a double dip” — a second recession that could be worse than the first.

Let’s face it, though: No matter what we call it — hard times, recession, depression — we can all agree that right now the economy stinks.

The Dog’s Trust calculates that owning a dog can cost a person an astounding $22,000 over the lifetime of the dog, a whopping figure that includes everything from meals, visits to the veterinarian, grooming, pet insurance, toys and treats. This year, Americans are spending an estimated combined $51 billion on their pets — a record amount. With households tightening their belts during difficult economic times like we’ve experienced in the past few years, pet expenses really do add up.

Pet Care During a Recession

However, believe it or not, people are not too concerned about pet care during a recession. People who own pets seem to have a positive outlook:

• A 2009 study found that 78 percent of cat owners were continuing to provide normal expenses for their pets despite the Great Recession.
• A study released in September 2011 showed that dog owners felt the same way, with 68 percent of people saying the lagging economy has no effect on their pet care spending.

And get this: Pet ownership is at an all-time high, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA). The number of people who own pets (72.9 million households) has inched up 2.1 percent in the past two years.

Recession-battered pet owners are making small purchases of pet products that provide as much happiness to them as to their pets, according to the APPA. “Their pets were a rock after a horrible day,” notes association president Bob Vetere. “And now, people are wanting to reward their pets.”

Sometimes it can seem as if your pet is the only one who truly understands you — and now their loyalty is being repaid. Or is it…?

Feeling the Pinch

Veterinarians: It’s important to note that some veterinarians are reporting a different story. A few veterinarians we contacted tell us that many pet owners are cutting back on things they consider to be “optional,” such as yearly vaccines and preventive medicine. These vets add that more owners opt for less-expensive treatments and refuse or put off diagnostic or nonessential services.

Pet Foods: While pet food sales continue to produce positive growth, the growth rate is definitely down.

Dog Grooming, Pet Sitting, Dog Boarding, Etc.: The businesses we contacted gave a mixed report on how the recession has affected their bottom lines, with most reporting minimal gains (and some saying business is way down).

So, how to explain the disconnect between what pet owners are saying (“We’re not tightening our belts too much”) and what pet businesses are reporting (“Yes, they are”)? It could be hopeful optimism on the part of pet owners.

Shelter Populations Growing

Meanwhile, animal shelters and rescue groups report an increase in their populations since 2008, as some people feel forced to give up their pets just to make ends meet. “Some people are embarrassed, and they do want to say, ‘My home is foreclosed on,’” says Lyndsey Bruno of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. “It’s hard for people — it’s very emotional.”

To make matters worse, the increase in pet surrenders has been accompanied by a decrease in donations to the shelters.

One silver lining: Some (but certainly not all) animal shelters say the number of pet adoptions is actually increasing. “It seems people are having bigger hearts because of the economy,” says Brandi Bowers of the Berkeley County Humane Society in Martinsburg, West Virginia.

Leave No Pets Behind!

A website operated by the Humane Society urges down-and-out pet owners, even those facing foreclosure on their house, to hold on to their animals till the bitter end. The organization’s Stephanie Shain calls pets abandonment “not only irresponsible” but “illegal” as well. “Pet owners may feel financially unable to care for their pets,” she says, “but there are many alternatives to leaving pets behind.”

Plan ahead, as much as possible, for potential economic disasters. Search for pet-friendly apartments, for example.

Ways to Save Money on Pet Expenses

Other money-saving tips for pet care during a recession:

• Go comparison shopping for routine veterinary care and ask for only essential vet services.
• Look for inexpensive toys and treats.
• Realize that pet insurance may not be worth the expense.
• Save money on pet medications by shopping online — but only at trusted pharmacies that are accredited by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.

In this quick video, Jim Humphries, DVM, of Veterinary News Network, also provides money-saving tips:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6KczVpCLOc4

Additional Resources

• American Pet Products: Annual spending on pets, and other pet industry statistics
• My Pet Savings: Coupons, freebies, deals and more
• ASCPA: Saving money on vet care
• Bryan Jaffe: Pet industry market trends (2010)

Photo: TheGiantVermin/Flickr

Source: Pet Care During a Recession: Rover Is Not Going Hungry

Written by David Deleon Baker Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

When visiting their doctor, smart people make a list of things they want to discuss: moles, fungus, headaches and heart palpitations. If you’re lucky, you’ll have 10 minutes with the doctor, so you have to make those minutes count.

The same is true with your veterinarian, especially if you see him only once a year. Your pet can’t tell you if he’s feeling poorly, so it’s up to you to be proactive. The next time you take in your dog or cat for his annual check-up, take along this list of 10 questions to ask your veterinarian.

1. Is my pet at a healthy weight?

Pet obesity is just as much a problem as human obesity. The main culprits are poor diet, overfeeding and a bad defense against pet mind powers (“Look how sad I am. A taste of that bacon sure would make me feel better”), but lack of exercise brings up a close second. Dogs need about 30 minutes of exercise a day, and most don’t get nearly enough.

Ask your vet to tell you your pet’s ideal weight. If he’s underweight, ask how much food you should be giving him. If he’s overweight, talk to your vet about a diet and exercise program… and stick to it!

2. Does my pet need a dental cleaning?

After your dog or cat turns 3 or 4, it’s a good idea to have your vet monitor dental health. As pets age, they can develop the same types of dental disease as humans. Vets recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily, but at the very least, they should be cleaned on a regular basis as soon as your pet begins to develop tartar or periodontal disease.

3. Does my pet need a blood test?

Every pet — especially seniors! — should have an annual blood test to screen for kidney and liver disease, as well as cancer, diabetes, thyroid problems and a host of other congenital illnesses that can be treated if caught early enough. Even if there’s nothing wrong with your pet, a blood test will provide a baseline against which your veterinarian can analyze your pet’s blood over time.

4. Could I be providing a more appropriate food?

Although the pet food industry has made excellent progress in developing healthy foods high in protein and low in fillers, too few people choose premium pet food. Talk to your vet about the food you’re currently providing and ask him for his recommendation for healthy, age-appropriate pet food.

5. My pet has been acting weird. Any idea why?

If you notice any behavioral changes, such as inappropriate elimination or aggression, tell your vet about it. Because pets don’t usually know how to speak human, they must often resort to bad behavior to let their owners know that something isn’t right inside.

6. What are these lumps and bumps?

As pets age, they naturally develop lumps, bumps and moles. Aging is the main reason for skin changes, but you should make sure that none of the lumps are cancerous. Point out any fatty lumps, hard bumps or strange moles and ask your vet for a biopsy if he’s concerned.

7. What are the latest recommendations for vaccinations?

Although vaccinations are undoubtedly essential for your pet’s health, especially for puppies or kittens, there’s a great deal of controversy around how often to vaccinate. Some experts believe that pets over a certain age don’t need vaccinations at all! Ask your veterinarian for his recommendations regarding rabies and other vaccinations.

8. Should my pet be taking supplements?

Although premium pet food contains all the nutrients pets need for optimum health and diet, many owners add supplements to their pet’s food, especially supplements for joint health. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if your pet would benefit from other supplements, such as fish oil for a healthier coat.

9. Can you please give my pet a rectal exam?

No joke! Unless you ask for one, veterinarians don’t usually give your dog or cat a full rectal exam, which screens for prostate and rectal cancer. Both are treatable if caught early enough, so make sure a rectal is part of the annual check-up.

10. Can you please explain my bill to me?

Have you ever wondered why a 10-minute visit and routine procedures cost so much, but were afraid to ask? Speak up! Most veterinary bills contain line-item expenses, but the descriptions can still be a little obscure. Talk to the front-office staff about these charges, and ask as many questions as you’d like.

Photo: Nottingham Vet School/Flickr

Source: 10 Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian

Written by Tamar Love Grande Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Giving blood has always been a common way for people to help others in times of disaster. Did you know that your pet can help, too?

When your pet donates to a pet blood bank, he’ll help treat animals in desperate need of blood, like accident victims or pets with Parvo, who need transfusions to live.

“I encourage pet parents to consider enrolling their pets in blood donor programs,” says Dr. Christopher Byers, an emergency veterinarian in Omaha, Nebraska. “Sadly, just as in human transfusion medicine, veterinarians often are faced with blood product shortages, too.”

The Right Type

Cats can have only cat blood, and dogs can have only dog blood, but it must also be the right type of blood, just as it is with humans.

There are eight different canine blood types, so your pup’s blood will come in handy whatever its type. Cats have type A or B blood. Most are type A, so if your kitty is type B, your local pet blood bank will be very grateful for a donation.

“We’re constantly on the lookout for new donors,” says Marianne Schultz, who runs the St. Louis Animal Blood Bank in Kirkwood. “There is such a demand for blood.”

Determine if Your Pet Is a Good Donor

If you think your pet will attempt to maul the veterinary staff,  he is not a good candidate. The procedure will take about a half hour, during which time your pet will need to remain flat on a table. As you can imagine, few cats will stand for this sort of thing, and only very patient and obedient dogs.

If you think your pet might put up with this indignity, take him to the vet for a health checkup and a blood test to make sure he doesn’t have any blood-borne diseases. One of the benefits of donating is that you’ll be forced to do this annually, a great benefit for your pet’s overall health.

Although cats of any size can donate, veterinarians recommend that dogs are 50 pounds or larger.

What to Expect When Your Pet Donates Blood

When you take your pet in to donate blood, expect the procedure to take about a half hour. Dogs usually don’t struggle much, but your cat may need to be sedated.

After the vet tech places a needle into the draw site, usually a large vein in the neck, they will begin to take the blood. A typical donation is 15.3 ounces of plasma.

The procedure itself is safe and painless, and you don’t have to fast your pet before his donation. Depending on your pet’s size and general health, he can donate up to four times a year.

Finding a Pet Blood Bank

Ask your veterinarian or call your emergency vet to see if they accept blood donations. If not, they should be able to refer you to another vet who can help.

Source: Your Pets Can Donate Blood, Too!

Written by Tamar Love Grande Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

If you’re like me — or anyone else trying to stick to a budget — then you’re always looking for ways to spend less money. Here are a few ways to save big on your pet’s veterinary costs.

1. Prevention

Just as with humans, the best way to save big on vet bills is to avoid them. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best preventives. Make sure your dog gets some form of exercise daily — walks, trips to the dog park, play dates with other dogs, playing games with you — and eats a premium diet. Your cat doesn’t need formal exercise, but playtime has great benefits.

Commercials for Pedigree and Purina products tell you their food is healthy, but if you check the labels, you’ll see that the food you buy in grocery stores is high in fat and fillers, no matter how “healthy” it claims to be. By heading for your local pet store or feed barn, you can buy a premium food for only a little more, one that is actually good for your pet.

When you find a premium food you like, try to buy it in bulk. For example, the Natural Balance Fish & Sweet Potato food I buy at the feed barn costs about $37 for a 15 pound bag, whereas the 28 pound bag costs only $47.

2. Annual Vet Visits

If you see your veterinarian annually, you’ll up your chances of finding a problem before it becomes a serious (and expensive) issue. For example, if you have your dog’s blood tested every year, you’ll become aware of conditions like diabetes and cancer when there still may be a chance to successfully treat them.

If you have more than one pet, try to take them in at the same time. It’s a bigger financial outlay all at once, but most veterinarians give a multiple-pet discount, so you’ll wind up paying less in the long run.

3. Home Remedies

For very basic health problems, like constipation, diarrhea, conjunctivitis and fleas, you can try home remedies for pets before you shell out funds for a vet visit your dog or cat may not need. Keep in mind, though, that if the “DIY” remedies don’t seem to be working, or if the condition worsens, you should take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.

4. Low-Cost Clinic for Basic Services

If you adopt your pet from a shelter, he will most likely already be spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped, which will save you a bundle in vet fees. However, if your pet does need these services, you can take him to a low-cost clinic to for basic procedures, saving the big bucks for your pet’s annual visits at your regular veterinarian’s office.

Look around for vaccination clinics. Many pet supply stores offer them, as do feed barns. Our dog park even offers them on Sundays! Many animal shelters will also vaccinate or microchip for reduced rates.

5. Avoid the Emergency Vet

If you notice that something seems off about your pet, try to do something about it during regular business hours. Although emergency vet visits can be essential in many situations, they cost about 50 percent more than visits during business hours. When you’re deciding on a veterinarian, try to select one that is open late every day of the week.

6. Make Informed Decisions

If you’ve ever had to visit the vet for more than just a sniffle, you know how confusing it can be when your vet presents different options, especially since some of them can be very expensive. Since the vet is the expert, most people sign off on procedures they may not need, just because they aren’t very knowledgeable about pet health.

It’s possible that if you put off those pricey X-rays for one day, your dog’s constipation might clear up on its own. If you live in an area where heartworm is extremely rare, perhaps your pet doesn’t need the recommended test and preventive medication.

Read up on your dog’s breed and familiarize yourself with common health issues and remedies. If your veterinarian recommends something expensive, get a second opinion. Use common sense when you evaluate the estimate.

7. Save on Medication

If your pet is on a maintenance drug for a chronic condition, such as thyroid problems, arthritis or heart murmur, ask your vet if he can give you a prescription for a human equivalent. Although your health insurance won’t pay for it, you can purchase many commonly used drugs for $4 at Target or Costco.

Look online for flea control products, discount medications and vaccinations you can administer yourself. Ebay is a good source for flea and tick control, and sites like 1-800-PetMeds.com offer significant discounts on medication.

8. A Word on Pet Insurance

Although pet insurance is a safe way to ease your mind about unexpected vet costs, it’s even better if you create a savings account for your pet. With pet insurance, you’ll pay monthly premiums and may never need to make a claim. If you’re able to save $5,000 or so for emergencies, you’ll accrue interest and avoid paying monthly premiums.

Do you have any tips for saving on your pet’s healthcare costs? Tell me about them in the comments section below.

Photo: Joseph O’Connell/Flickr

Source: 8 Ways to Save Big on Vet Costs

Written by Tamar Love Grande Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Ever wondered the reasons why pets get surgery? Wonder no more! A pet insurance company recently dug through reams of its files to determine a “top 10″ list, if you will, of the most common surgeries for dogs and cats.

The top reasons why pets get surgeries? In the top 3 for both dogs and cats are: removal of benign skin masses, tooth extractions and removal of skin abscesses, inflammation or pressure ulcer.

How much do these pet surgeries cost? For removal of a skin mass, you’re looking at about $1,000. Veterinary Pet Insurance Company, which released the data, says that the “average claim routinely [costs] thousands of dollars.”

VPI insures about 485,000 pets nationwide, including not only dogs and cats but also birds and exotic pets. It is the largest provider of pet health insurance in the United States. And now, on to the lists…

List of Most Common Surgeries for Dogs

1. Benign skin mass
2. Skin abscess, inflammation or pressure ulcer
3. Tooth extraction
4. Torn ACL or cartilage
5. Malignant skin mas
6. Spleen cancer
7. Eyelid cancer
8. Bladder stones
9. Liver cancer
10. Auricular hematoma (fluid-filled ear)

List of Most Common Surgeries for Cats

1. Tooth extraction
2. Skin abscess, inflammation or pressure ulcer
3. Benign skin mass
4. Bladder stones
5. Cancer of the abdominal wall
6. Malignant skin mass
7. Multiple bite wounds
8. Liver cancer
9. Mouth cancer
10. Nasal cavity cancer

Source: Veterinary Pet Insurance Co.

Source: List of Most Common Surgeries for Dogs and Cats

Written by David Deleon Baker Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.

Should you use Meloxicam for cats? Is it safe?

Should you use Meloxicam for cats? Is it safe for your cat? Here’s what you need to know.

Meloxicam is a prescription NSAID, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (brand name: Metacam).

The solution for injection has been approved for one-time use before a surgery such as orthopedic operations, ovariohysterectomies or castrations. However, another version of the drug, the oral suspension type, has not been approved for cats (only for dogs).

Reports on the oral suspension Metacam indicate that it causes adverse reactions in cats, including associations with acute renal failure and death.

So do not use oral suspension Metacam in your kitty. It is not safe for your cat. In addition, you should not use injectable Metacam beyond one use. Your veterinarian has probably already told you this.

Meloxicam is in the news recently because the maker of the drug, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, has agreed to place new feline safety warnings on its product labels and package inserts. If you have any questions, you can contact the company at 1 (866) 638-2226.

NSAIDs can alleviate pain and reduce fever, inflammation and swelling. However, many NSAIDS cannot be use in pets because of side effects such as: stomach ulceration in dogs or cats, platelet deactivation, possible kidney failure. Other brand names of Meloxicam include Mobic and Mobicox.

Source: American Veterinary Medical Association, Oct. 18, 2010.

Source: Should You Use Meloxicam for Cats?

Written by Pets Adviser Copyright 2012, Pets Adviser® pet advice.