A puppy is a wonderful addition to any home. However, the first thing on many new pet owners’ minds is finance. While you might want to spoil your latest furry family member, it isn’t necessary. Here are tips for caring for a puppy on a budget.
Getting Your Puppy on a Schedule
When you first bring your puppy home, it’ll probably be sleepy and disoriented. While it adjusts to its new space and owner, you’ll want to get it on a schedule immediately. Build your routine around walks, feeding times of two to three times a day, and play. After all, it will need all three. In the early days, it won’t be allowed outside unless it’s had its shots, which means you’ll be stuck inside.
Keeping Your Floors Clean
Unfortunately, your flooring will take a hit in the days before you can go outside with your furry friend and when it is still potty training. Even a fully-grown dog will pee or poop inside the house occasionally. Therefore, maintaining your floors is a must.
Cleanliness for Your Puppy’s Health
There’s a reason you can’t take your puppy outside until it’s had its shots. Its immune system is far weaker than other dogs’, leaving it vulnerable to illness. Since you will spend so much time inside the house together, eliminating potential irritants is a must.
No matter how clean and often you vacuum, your carpet might still store dust, dirt, and pet dander. Brandon Gaille states the need to care for carpets through cleaning is very clear. Over 43 million tons of dust fall in the U.S. annually, and indoor air receives two-thirds of that.
Here’s a fact that will make your skin crawl: that amount of dust means up to 2,000 dust mites can live on one ounce of carpet dust, and the last thing you want is for those particles to enter your fur baby’s lungs. As you prepare your home for your new arrival and bring it home, make sure you prioritize keeping your carpet clean. Not only will it benefit the puppy but also you and your family!
Affordable Options for Your Pet’s Needs
Worrying about finance can make purchasing the essentials stressful. There are affordable options for most things, from your pet’s food, bowls, collar, and leash, to toys, bedding, and clothing. However, additional research will be necessary to ensure you’re not skimping on quality.
You’ll need to start on high-quality food. Remember, it’s just stopped weaning, and its body will be looking for food to provide the nourishment it once got from its mother. Look for food high in fat and protein to support your puppy’s development in its early years. According to the American Kennel Club, you should feed your puppy a diet that contains at least 22% protein and 8% fat.
Letting Your Puppy Out to Play
Once your new family member is comfortable in your home, it will become curious and probably get into some trouble. Some mischief is standard and will keep you amused, but you don’t want to let it get out of control. Puppies need stimulation. Time outdoors can work wonders, even if you just put it in a fenced area with a toy or two for a few hours.
Before you let them off-leash outside, you need reliable fencing. If you’re worried about money, this might seem daunting. Aluminum fencing is a great, affordable option, requiring minimal maintenance compared to other fencing materials. Unlike wood or vinyl, it won’t rust or rot and won’t be susceptible to frustrating termite damage. Also, unlike different types of fencing, it’s easy to install.
You’ll fall in love when you meet your puppy and want to give it the best of everything. However, that feeling goes much further than anything of monetary value. Give your fur baby your time and love, and set a budget for everything else.
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