People are faced with having to give up on the things they love the most, and for many pet parents this could mean their furry friend. The Houston SPCA would like to offer some advice on how you can properly take care of your pet and save money during these uncertain economic times.

First and foremost, making sure your pet is in good overall health will cut down on veterinary expenses. Having your pet spayed or neutered helps to reduce the development of cancers, infections and behavior problems. Annual exams are very important and for senior animals, a check-up every 6 months is commonly recommended. This way, any developing illnesses can be caught in their early stages keeping your overall cost low.

You can do your own weekly health checks for your pet by feeling for lumps, bumps, flakes or scabs on their bodies. Check their ears and eyes for discharge or redness and note any changes in their eating or drinking habits. Consult your vet immediately if anything seems unusual. Make sure your pet is on a heartworm preventative and take precautions to protect them against fleas. Fleas can cause skin diseases, anemia, scratching, allergies and tapeworms. Your vet can also recommend what vaccinations your pet needs to stay protected against certain illnesses and diseases.

Some other self help procedures you can do to help your pet and save on costs include:

Help prevent against periodontal disease by brushing their teeth regularly with a toothpaste formulated for pets. Bad breath is a sign of other health problems.

Learn how to clean their ears properly to prevent infection.

Exercise them daily to keep them mentally and physically fit.

Feed them quality, nutritionally sound food in amounts for their size, breed and age. Overweight pets can suffer from illnesses such as arthritis, along with liver and heart disease.

Groom your pets at home with regular brushings and nail trimmings.

Instead of overspending on extra snacks or toys, put that money in a fund to pay for your pets' emergencies, elderly care and end of life care. Pet insurance should also be a consideration as it can also help offset the cost of major illnesses and diseases.

The Houston SPCA encourages pet parents to evaluate their budgets and plan as to how they can keep their furry companions a part of their family for a lifetime.

For information on reduced cost vaccinations other preventative services and low cost spay/neuter, the SNAP Houston Wellness Clinic and SNAP Spay & Neuter Clinic can help! Click here for a list of their services and prices.

Photo Courtesy SNAP