By Ayanna Kirton, Freelance Writer 
PETS ARE a source of comfort, unconditional love, and security for many people. In return, pets count on their owners to provide them with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, companionship and more. In short, pet care is not an easy or inexpensive task but if you decide to open your home to a four-legged friend there are several ways that you can enjoy a rewarding relationship with your pet and still keep your bank account in good shape. Here are few essentials:
Select the services of a reputable veterinarian to perform regular check-ups. The best way to find a good vet is to ask an experienced pet owner, possibly a family member or friend. This is extremely helpful particularly if you have no prior knowledge about the doctor's track record. A friend may also encourage you to take your new pet to their current animal care practitioner because they have first-hand experience, which is often the best referral of all. Fees generally range from $800-$2,000 per visit.
Keep careful records of your pet's inoculations and other health-care services. If you switch vets, you won't risk having costly procedures duplicated if you can't recall what was done. According to veterinarians, a puppy must be inoculated at six weeks of age and will receive another series of shots at nine weeks old, then 12 weeks and finally at 14 weeks old. On average these visits vary between $800 and $1,200 (inclusive of the cost of inoculations) depending on the private practice of your choice.
CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES
FOR TREATMENT
Humane societies such as the Jamaica Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA) offer thriftier medical services than private practitioners. This is a good option for the pet owner on a budget and the proceeds from your pet's visit will go towards protecting the lives of endangered animals. Examination fees start at $350 for cats and puppies and $600 for dogs.
According to Laura Shanahan, author of 21 Ways to Cut Vet Costs, spaying or neutering your pet will decrease its chances of getting a variety of serious illnesses. It's also generally known that such animals have fewer behavioural problems. According to Shanahan, veterinarians endorse this procedure since there is a better than 99 per cent reduction in the incidence of malignant breast cancer in dogs and cats if spayed before their first heat cycle. That benefit drops to 92 per cent if the spay is performed between the first and second heat cycles. Un-neutered male dogs have a greater risk of prostate infections. Additionally, in Jamaica, spaying or neutering cats and dogs can help to reduce the number of puppies and kittens that are often mistreated because they are unwanted. In many cases euthanasia is often carried out in an effort to keep the population of stray dogs and cats under control. However, this can be avoided if pet owners take the precautionary methods.
Shanahan also advises pet owners to always seek a second opinion. Sometimes a vet may suggest a pricey procedure, which may not be the only option available to keep your pet healthy. It is important to get additional expert opinion particularly since you would do the same for yourself!
DIET AND EXERCISE
Like humans, pets also need a nutritionally balanced diet and plenty to exercise to stay healthy. This will help to minimise health risks, which can mean hefty medical bills. Consult your veterinarian for advice on what to feed your pet and the level of exercise appropriate for them.
According to Jennifer Mahfood, founder of It's A Dog's World, whether you feed your dog pre-packaged dog food or you prepare meals for your dog, dog food costs range between $300 and $500 every two weeks. Depending on the type of food your cat prefers, the cost of food for cats are also within the same region but can be minimised if speciality cat foods are used interchangeably with less costly options, for example canned mackerel.
Don't let your pets run loose or unsupervised and where possible have fenced-in areas for pets. This will help to keep pets away from danger, such as speeding vehicles, other dogs, and thieves.
The Humane Society of the United States urges pet owners to outfit their pets with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address, and telephone number. Expecting the safe return of your pedigree pet may be wishful thinking in our situation but there are a few kind souls in Jamaica who would be more than happy to reunite a pet with its rightful owner if they see it wandering the street or on their property.
Pets should also be bathed and groomed at least once a month. The Pet Lifeboat, a pet grooming and supply store in St. Andrew, recommends that pets be groomed at least every four weeks. You can do this at home or professionally. Pet Lifeboat's professional grooming rates start at $1,000 and can increase to $2,500 depending on the size of the dog and the level of care required.
Obedience school is also a smart option if your budget permits. Professional obedience training courses are often four weeks long and prices begin at $11,000. According to the American Society for the Protection of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), positive training will allow a pet owner to control their companion's behaviour safely and humanely while enhancing the bond shared with their dog.
