However, what if your children aren’t human at all but are still as much a part of your family as a son or daughter? Pet owners, especially of dogs and cats, stand a greater risk of loss should a pet run away from home by escaping through a door or under a fence. Pet owners can be just as devastated at losing a beloved animal as they would a human counterpart and in times of emergency, it can be difficult to stay mentally on task in order to help find a missing pet.

By establishing a pet identification kit that can be turned over to the local police or ASPCA, you can act fast and get out the vital information that you need to deliver in order to recover your pet. It doesn’t have to be an expensive kit. Just use a large manila envelope and keep the following items up to date:

A Clear Photo of Your Pet

It can be surprising to realize the number of times the owner of a lost animal can not easily locate a good picture of their pet. Take updated shots of your pet every few months, especially if it is still growing so you will have something to add to flyers and allow the public to help in your search. Blurry photos or ones that make it difficult to identify your pet will not be very useful.

A List of Vitals

You will want to make sure you can provide exact descriptions of your pets such as eye color, coat color, markings, and weight. If you pet has a microchip, keep information that pertains to the chip on hand for easier identification.

Copies of Medical History and Vaccinations

You will want to have these on hand to prove that your animal is up to date all on shots and exams in the event the dog is turned over to the pound. There is also the possibility that a dog on the loose can become frightened and end up biting its rescuer. You will want to be sure you can prove rabies in not a factor so your dog will not be turned over to authorities. Keep all copies of prescription and medical records current for each exam or treatment.

Registration Papers

If you have any information pertaining to local registration information such as tag number, keep them in your file. If you have any information or paperwork regarding your animal’s purebred status, this also may come in handy.

This information should be stored in safe but accessible place at home. If you put it away in a safety deposit box and your dog runs away on a Saturday evening, you will not have access to it until the following Monday during business hours. Also remember, if you are traveling with your pet, bring a copy of the entire file with you in case of an emergency. It is best to leave the original set at home where it is safe, as traveling can leave you absent-minded.<-->

Pet Owner’s Necessity: Create a Pet ID Kit was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

If you find that you are facing a similar situation, know that you are not alone. For many faced with the difficult decision to give up a family pet, it is a big source of embarrassment, leading many people to drop off their animals along the side of the road, rather than face shelter care workers. Even worse, there are reports of people who have lost their homes to a foreclosure who have simply left their pets behind in the vacant home. However, pride or embarrassment should not be superseded by your love for your dog or cat and turning them over to a shelter is the best way to save your pet if there are absolutely no other alternatives.

 Before making any final decisions, it is important to consider all of your options for your pet. Since many shelters are already faced with problems of overcrowding and not enough public support, it is worth your time to investigate your other resources. No one can blame you for having to give up a pet because of financial reasons, provided you do it responsibly.

ASK AROUND – Many of your neighbors, co-workers, and relatives may be more than happy to take care of your pet, even temporarily. Even if there is no takers from the immediate circle of your friends, someone may know someone who would love to adopt your dog or cat.

POST FLIERS – These days it can be risky to advertise your pet publicly to total strangers but there are plenty of good people who may be interested in taking your animal. Consult with your local animal shelter and ask for their assistance in screening potential takers or even recommending quality foster parents.

GO GENERIC – Many people do not even realize how much luxury they lavish on their pets. Dogs and cats are happy to eat quality food but there is no need for the additional treats, snacks, and gourmet foods. Unless there is a medical necessity, you can probably cut back on some of the pet products you are currently buying. You can also skip the pricey vet bills for routine shots and instead seek out a clinic that offers discount rabies and other vaccines. If you cut back on the cash you spend on your pet, you may find you can actually afford to keep him.

If you happen to know someone struggling to get by who has a pet, drop off a few cans of pet food anonymously on their porch if you don’t want to cause them undue embarrassment or deliver some personally and let them know you care. For elderly people who can barely afford their own medication, their dog or cat may be the only company they have each day. If you can help them keep their beloved pets at home, you can really make a difference.

You can also donate food, money, or other necessities to your local shelters, which are filling up faster these days as more pets get surrendered. A few cans of dog or cat food can make a big difference and may only cost you a few bucks. Shelters can also used old blankets and shredded paper as bedding which doesn’t cost you a thing. My own mother, who is a nurse, donates expired baby formula that is not good enough for infants but works wonders with kittens. Every little bit will help.

Bad Economy Is Hurting Pets was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Between the rising cost of animal health-care, including vaccinations and emergency services, there is little room for much else when you consider the immediate needs of your family. Here are a few tips for cutting back on the pet luxuries in order to stay on track with your budget.

Budget

Speaking of budgets, if you consider your pet a member of the family, there is no reason why they can’t be included in the family budget. Consider the issues of health treatments, preventative care and medicines, grooming supplies, food, treats, and toys. Regular shopping trip should have already enlightened you as to the cost of your regular purchases. Look at the figures on paper and you might be surprised at just how much you spend on Fido.

Don’t Get Caught Up in Cutsie

The pet market is expanding rapidly. Due to the increased exposure of celebrities and their pets with clothes, strollers, and diamonds, there is a larger market than ever for merchandise solely for pets of every kind. Unless you live in sub-zero temperatures during the year, your dog probably doesn’t need a cashmere sweater to be styling. Avoid the kitschy stuff out there for your pets and don’t fall for the impulsive buys that can cost you more than can afford. Stick to the basics – food, water, shelter, and lots of love.

Save for Your Pet

Just like your pet should be included in your budget, there is no reason why they can not be a part of your savings plan. Many of us would do anything to save or improve the lives of our pets so take consideration of medical emergencies when devising your savings plan. In the event of a life or death situation, you won’t be forced to finance surgery or treatment on credit. Instead, you’ll have cash that can make the decision to save your pet’s life a no-brainer.

Bathe Your Pet on Your Own

Pet grooming is convenient and a lot less messy for an owner. However, it is a luxury that is not necessary. Keeping your pet groomed with regular brushings should limit the number of more intense grooming practices. Purchase a good quality pet shampoo and get your pet used to being bathed at home. It’s a good bonding experience for both pet and owner. If you aren’t comfortable about clipping nails or shaving fur, research local clinics that will help teach you some safety tips.

Shop In Bulk

If there are certain things your pet can’t live without – think litter, dry food, non-perishable treats – shop at wholesale outlets and buy in bulk to get the best savings, provided you have the storage area to put it in.

Stop Splurging On Your Pet and Save Big Bucks was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Many people consider their pets to be a member of the family. In that regard, pets are often spoiled and enjoy the same comforts as their human counterparts. Pet owners have been known to take it to the extreme in some cases. We’ve already read a story or two about the billionaire who left everything to Fluffy the cat or the millionaire dog that now lives alone in a palatial estate. I used to think people who purchased pet insurance were in the same category. However, realistically those who are willing to do whatever it takes to make sure their pet is healthy, may find pet insurance a good policy to have if they otherwise could not afford a large bill in emergency situations. It is relatively inexpensive, costing on average between $15 and $28 a month, depending on the type, age, and breed of the animal. Coverage is generally divided between basic and premium.

When shopping for a plan, you should pay attention to what it will cover, such as which illnesses, injuries, and treatment options are included in the plan. Pre-existing conditions are usually not covered. Most plans will carry a deductible of $50 or more and require a co-payment. Typically, most plans will obligate you to pay the amount in full at the time of service and then file a claim for which you will be reimbursed at a later time. Owners, who wish to insure more than one pet, may be able to get a discount on the insurance plan.  There also may be discounted programs available through animal-related organizations.

Purchasing insurance for your pet is really no different than buying it for yourself or your family. You need to shop around and compare plan benefits to get the best policy for you. Make sure the monthly premium payments are within your budget and before signing any agreements, be sure the company is legitimate and you are confident you are clear on what benefits are included.

Insurance Is For The Birds…and Other Pets was created by and is property of American Consumer News.