A CHALLENGING Side to Holiday cheerAlthough generally a time of celebration and cheer, the Holiday season can also pose challenges for those with limited resources. Rampant inflation and a steadily escalating cost of living crisis, have ensured that many households across the country will find the joy of the season tempered by financial strain. The pressures of having to buy gifts, host meals and possibly make costly journeys to visit loved ones (even a couple of trips across town can cause a crunch given soaring gas prices) quickly multiply. Even those with relatively stable finances can find themselves buckling towards the end of the year. At times of economic uncertainty, pets and their owners undoubtedly feel an extra pinch. An animal, no matter how beloved, is still another mouth to feed, another element in the scramble to sufficiently allocate resources. The cultural expectation of joy only adds to this pressure. Nobody wants to miss out on the fun, or feel that they are failing to provide for their loved ones, furry or otherwise. The need to stay within a tight budget while ticking even the basic boxes can be challenging, to say the least. Thankfully, strategic planning and creative thinking, make it possible for pet owners, even those working with lower incomes, to save money while ensuring that their animals enjoy a stand-out Holiday Season. Here are some practical ideas to help save money on pet care and supplies. First Thing’s First: Remember What’s Most ImportantWhile not a money-saving hack, or gift suggestion, this point is worth stating regardless: Put the essential needs of your pets first. Don’t let the financial pressures of the season prevent you from caring for your animals with the same attention and dedication you give them year-round. For example, make sure you meet their nutritional needs before buying them that new toy. It’s not worth swapping the quality of your pet’s essential care, even temporarily, for some fancy seasonal luxury that will probably be forgotten come January 1st. Finally, remember that the best thing you can do for any loved one (really the only thing that matters) is to give them your love and attention. Quality time and play is worth more than any toy or treat. Do It Yourself! Homemade Treats and ToysIn my family, homemade gifts get a far better reception than those purchased in a store. After all, it takes considerably more time and effort to make something than it does to simply purchase or order it. Not that there’s anything wrong with spending money on your pets, but nothing you can buy will equal the thoughtfulness of a gift made by hand; something one-of-a-kind, which stands out from the offerings of an oversaturated consumer landscape. Since food is a huge part of many holiday traditions, consider making homemade pet treats with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. You can also use the prep and baking time as an opportunity to bond with your pet. Involving them in the process becomes a gift in itself. Check this list of recipes for ideas, or look online for a plethora of additional options. Besides delicious edible treats, DIY pet toys can be crafted from common household items, providing entertainment for your animals at a minimal cost. For example, a stuffed sock or small bell tied to the end of some string can provide your cat with hours of entertainment. For dogs, consider tying up srips of old t-shirt fabric to make a low-cost tug toy. As with food recipes, the internet is a treasure trove of potential DIY gifting options, many of which encourage using recycled materials: good for your pet, good for the planet! To get you started, this video shows how to make a DIY catnip toy for that special feline in your life. Smart Spending: Budget-Friendly Gift IdeasIf you don’t have time to go the DIY route, there are still ways to save money on purchased items. A variety of smartphone apps function as discount aggregators, compiling deals and coupons from across the web and incorporating them into a simple, easy-to-access list with direct links to the source of the discount. While these may not be pet-specific, many of the featured retailers stock animal supplies as part of their general inventory. You should also look for sales, discounts, and clearance items at local pet stores. Consider signing up for a consumer loyalty program that rewards you with points for consistently shopping at the same store or franchise. These discounts quickly add up. Finally, remember that you can repurpose everyday human items as pet-friendly gifts. A discount blanket, for example, can be transformed into a cozy bed for your furry friend. Including these items makes it easier to find a good deal. Damage Control: Researching Discounted Veterinary Services can Save You ThousandsVeterinarian services are by far the most financially burdensome of all pet-related expenses. Even basic procedures can end up emptying your savings in a blink. In many locations, the Winter months carry additional health risks such as canine flu, or accidents related to extreme weather conditions. No matter how tight your budget is, vet care comes first. Don’t delay treatment just to get through the holidays. If your pet does end up needing a procedure, research local clinics or animal welfare organizations that offer discounted or low-cost services. Some of these may organize special events or clinics where pet owners can access essential services or free, or at a reduced price. You Don’t Have to Do This Alone: Community Support and NetworkingThe kinds of resources available, and challenges faced, will vary from community to community. What works in one city might be ineffective or unavailable in another. Reach out to local pet care clubs or online forums to connect with animal owners who may be facing similar financial challenges. Sharing resources, tips, and even organizing swaps for pet supplies can help low-income pet owners support each other during the holiday season. Facebook is an effective platform for finding such groups. Of course, always exercise caution with your online dealings, being wary of scams, and mindful of where and how you share personal information. DIY Grooming: Beautify your beast!With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can skip expensive trips to professional pet salons and handle basic grooming tasks at home. Invest in budget-friendly supplies, such as nail clippers and brushes, and take the time to beautify your pets yourself. Not only does this save money, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Who knows, you might even discover a passion for the art! As with everything in the modern world, you don’t have to take the DIY grooming journey alone. A plethora of online guides exist to demystify the process. YouTube is the best platform for video tutorials, while websites like WikiHow offer step by step text instructions. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to suspend professional services indefinitely. An outing to an animal salon remains one of life’s true pleasures. Embrace Second-Hand BargainsJust as there are thrift stores for human items, second-hand markets and online exchange platforms offer gently used pet supplies at a steep discount. From beds to toys, exploring second-hand options can help you provide for your pets without straining your budget. Facebook Marketplace is a good place to start looking for used goods in your area. Craigslist can also work. Again, watch out for scams and exercise due caution when conducting any monetary transaction. When it comes to certain items, such as blankets or beds, make sure you carefully treat and sterilize each new item to avoid bringing fleas (or worse) into your house. But don’t be squeamish. Those of us who shop second hand can testify to the kind of quality bargains that await those with the patience to search. Don’t Dilly or Dally: Plan and Budget AheadPlanning is key to managing expenses. Create a budget that includes your pet-related expenses and stick to it. I repeat: Stick. To. It. Do your shopping as early as possible. When things get busy, a last-minute scarcity of essential items can drive up prices. Bear in mind that any online deals will need time to pack and ship. By planning ahead, you can avoid impulsive purchases and ensure that you meet your pet's needs without overspending. Help is Available While the current socio-economic climate can seem indifferent, even hostile to people's everyday struggles, it's important to remember that a sturdy support network remains available to help both individuals and communities navigate difficult times. PAWS/LA is one of several organizations that exists to assist qualifying low-income pet owners in Los Angeles County, providing free food and supplies as well as volunteer services and vouchers for emergency veterinarian procedures. Alongside our organization, a variety of other programs offer further options for those in need. If one group is unable to meet your specific needs, another may be able to step in instead. Thankfully, pet care charities such as PAWS/LA operate in many cities and jurisdictions outside of L.A. County, and a few even function on a national level. A quick Google search can connect you with the support programs closest to you. If that doesn’t work, try reaching out to local animal shelters, pet food banks, or community programs, especially those positioned to fight homelessness and poverty. At the very least, these groups should be able to give you a list of nearby resources and point you in the right direction. Case and social workers are also great sources of valuable information. The precise services offered will vary from group to group. Overall, this process can require some digging. Try and assume an attitude of persistence as you explore your options and determine the programs that you qualify for; don’t give up at the first hurdle! Everything You Need is Right in Front of You: Parting Words in the Form of a Well-Intentioned HomilyThe Holidays don’t need to overwhelm low-income pet owners. By adopting a thrifty mindset, embracing creativity, and tapping into community resources, you can keep your budget intact AND ensure that your pets get a healthy dose of seasonal joy. It can be difficult, but try not to get in your head about things. Stay on guard against unhealthy expectations. Consumer culture bombards us with messages equating joy with abundance, and our capacity for happiness with our ability to consume. Love quickly becomes a material proposition, with expressions of affection reduced to a state of mere transaction. To succumb to such messages would be to miss the point of the season. Forfeiting authentic joy in the pursuit of an artificial ideal is a real holiday tragedy. Quite simply, everything we need is already in front of us. The most valuable gifts we can give our pets are love, attention, and care--all of which come at no cost. If we provide these, we can safely say our Holiday Season was a time of abundance, and that we went above and beyond to provide for our beloved animals. Sure, the toys are nice; sure, it’s fun to own stuff. But at the end of the day, nothing you can buy beats a wagging tail or sniffly, wet-nosed kiss on a cold day. Service animals play a crucial role in providing assistance, companionship, and support to individuals with disabilities. They are highly trained to perform specific tasks that help mitigate their owner's limitations. While dogs are the most common type of service animals, other animals such as miniature horses can also serve in this capacity. If you have a beloved pet that you believe can be trained to assist you or someone else with a disability, registering them as a service animal might be an option worth exploring. In this blog post, we'll delve into the process of registering your pet as a service animal, the benefits it brings, the legal aspects involved, and the steps you need to take. Understanding the Concept of Service AnimalsService animals are not the same as therapy animals or emotional support animals. The key distinction lies in their specific training and the tasks they are trained to perform. Service animals are trained to perform tasks that directly assist an individual with a disability. These tasks could include alerting someone with hearing loss to sounds, guiding visually impaired individuals, pulling a wheelchair, or even detecting impending medical issues such as seizures or changes in blood sugar levels. The primary focus of a service animal is to enable its owner to lead a more independent and fulfilling life by providing essential assistance. Benefits of Registering a Service Animal
Legal Considerations: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law in the United States that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Under the ADA, service animals are defined as dogs (and in some cases, miniature horses) that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities. This definition is crucial, as it outlines the requirements for a pet to be considered a service animal:
Steps to Register Your Pet as a Service AnimalAssess Your Pet's Suitability: Not all pets are suitable candidates for becoming service animals. Assess your pet's temperament, trainability, and willingness to learn. Consider consulting with a professional dog trainer experienced in service animal training to gauge your pet's potential. Identify Specific Tasks: Determine the tasks that your pet can be trained to perform that will directly assist you or the individual with a disability. These tasks should be related to the disability and go beyond the basic functions of a pet. Training and Socialization: Enroll your pet in a comprehensive training program with a focus on task-specific training, public behavior, and socialization. This training should be conducted by a qualified professional who has experience in service animal training. Legal Understanding: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements and protections provided by the ADA or the equivalent law in your country. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a service animal handler is essential. No Formal Registration: It's important to note that there is no official or formal registration process for service animals in the United States. Websites that claim to offer "official" registration for service animals are often scams. A service animal is defined by its training and tasks, not by a registration certificate. Public Behavior and Etiquette: Your service animal should be well-behaved and not disrupt public spaces. Proper behavior includes staying calm around people and other animals, not begging for food, and not causing damage to property. Communicate Clearly: While service animals are not required to wear special vests or identification, having a clear and polite explanation ready for situations where questions arise can be helpful. Focus on describing the trained tasks your service animal performs. Be Prepared to Demonstrate Tasks: In situations where there might be doubts about your service animal's purpose, be prepared to demonstrate the specific tasks your animal is trained to perform. CONCLUSIONRegistering your pet as a service animal can be a life-changing decision for both you and the individual with a disability you are assisting. The process requires careful consideration, proper training, and a thorough understanding of legal requirements. Service animals contribute to a more inclusive and accessible society, empowering individuals to lead independent lives with the support and companionship of their dedicated and trained four-legged companions. If you believe your pet has the potential to become a service animal, take the necessary steps to ensure they receive the proper training and care to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. RESOURCESAt PAWS/LA it’s our mission to help support our clients with the financial and organizational challenges of pet ownership. Those we work with share an indelible bond with their pets and are committed to offering them the best possible life. The worst possible case is that somebody with this level of dedication and commitment would be forced to part with their companion animal due to difficulties that are beyond their control. We make sure these pet owners can meet their own high standards of pet ownership. But it’s not always easy—even if you don’t face financial hardship or physical limitations. Responsible pet ownership goes beyond providing food, shelter, and veterinary care; it encompasses a commitment to their well-being, behavior training, and environmental impact. In this blog post, we will delve into the core principles of responsible pet ownership, offering valuable insights and practical tips to help you become the kind of pet parent we see our clients, volunteers and other members of the PAWS/LA family try to be. Meeting Basic Needs The foundation of responsible pet ownership lies in meeting your pet's basic needs. These include proper nutrition, access to clean water, a safe and comfortable living environment, and regular veterinary care. Ensure you provide a balanced and appropriate diet based on your pet's species, age, and health requirements. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments will keep your pet healthy and protect them from diseases. Create a safe and secure environment for your pet by pet-proofing your home, removing hazards, and providing appropriate containment if necessary. Provide a cozy bed, toys for mental stimulation, and a designated area for them to retreat to when they need space. Regular grooming and hygiene practices, such as bathing and nail trimming, are essential to maintain your pet's well-being. BEHAVIORAL TRAININGResponsible pet ownership involves investing time and effort in behavioral training. Proper training not only enhances your pet's quality of life but also promotes a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend. Start with basic obedience training, including commands like sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work wonders in encouraging desired behavior. Socialization is vital for pets to develop good manners and interact well with other animals and people. Gradually introduce your pet to new experiences, environments, and individuals, ensuring positive interactions throughout the process. Training should also address common behavioral issues like excessive barking, chewing, or aggression. Seek professional help if needed, as behavior problems can often be addressed effectively with guidance from a qualified trainer or behaviorist. Physical and mental stimulationPets require regular exercise and mental stimulation to lead healthy and happy lives. Dogs, for instance, need daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for socializing with other dogs. Cats, on the other hand, benefit from interactive toys, scratching posts, and vertical spaces for climbing. Enrichment activities like puzzle toys, food-dispensing toys, and training sessions engage your pet's mind and prevent boredom. Consider your pet's specific needs and energy levels when designing an exercise routine. Engaging in activities together not only strengthens the bond between you and your pet but also promotes their overall well-being. Remember, a tired pet is often a well-behaved pet! environmental responsibilityResponsible pet ownership extends beyond the confines of your home. Consider the environmental impact of your pet and take steps to minimize it. Dispose of pet waste properly, preferably in designated areas or with biodegradable bags. Clean up after your pet during walks to ensure cleanliness and prevent the spread of diseases. Choose eco-friendly pet products, including biodegradable poop bags, natural grooming supplies, and sustainable pet toys. Opt for eco-conscious pet food brands that use sustainable sourcing practices and packaging. more than the essentialsBeing a responsible pet owner entails more than just providing the essentials; it requires dedication, patience, and a genuine love for your pet. By meeting their basic needs, investing in training, providing stimulation, and considering the environmental impact, you can ensure your pet leads a happy and healthy life. Responsible pet ownership not only benefits your furry companion but also fosters a more compassionate and sustainable society. So, embrace the responsibilities of pet ownership and cherish the incredible bond you share with your beloved pet.
Summer is here! We think. Maybe. It’s supposed to be, but who knows with the weather these days? Anyway, once the June gloom lifts, we’ll see sunshine, warmth, and plenty of outdoor activity. As pet owners, it's essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of our beloved companions during this time. The scorching heat can pose various risks to pets, such as dehydration, heatstroke, and burns. In this blog post, we will explore some crucial tips and guidelines to ensure the safety of your pets in the summer months. HYDRATIONJust like humans, pets need to stay properly hydrated to beat the summer heat. Ensure that your pets always have access to fresh, clean water. Consider placing multiple water bowls in different areas of your home and yard to encourage them to drink regularly. If you're heading out for a walk or a day trip, carry water and a portable bowl for your pet. This way, you can provide them with hydration whenever needed. BEWARE OF SCORCHING SURFACESPavements and asphalt can become scorching hot during the summer, causing severe burns to your pet's paws. Before taking your dog for a walk, test the ground with the back of your hand. If it feels too hot for you, it's too hot for your furry companion. Opt for walks during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening, when the pavement is less likely to be scalding. Alternatively, consider investing in protective booties for your dog's paws. PROVIDE SHADE AND VENTILATIONCreating a cool and comfortable environment for your pet is crucial during the summer. Ensure that your pets have access to shaded areas in your yard, whether it's under a tree or with the help of a sunshade or umbrella. If your pet spends most of their time indoors, keep the curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to prevent excess heat from entering your home. Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. Never, leave your pet in a parked car, even with the windows cracked, as the temperature can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. be careful with exerciseWhile regular exercise is essential for your pet's well-being, it's crucial to be mindful of the intensity and duration of activities during hot summer days. Avoid rigorous exercise during peak hours and opt for shorter, more frequent walks instead. Consider taking your pet for a swim as a fun and refreshing way to keep them active without overheating. Remember to rinse off chlorine or saltwater after swimming, as it can irritate their skin. watch for signs of heat strokeHeatstroke is a severe condition that requires immediate attention. Be vigilant for symptoms such as excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool area immediately, apply cool (not cold) water to their body, and contact your veterinarian right away. ENJOY YOUR SUMMERAs pet owners, it's our responsibility to keep our furry friends safe and comfortable during the summer months. By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your pets enjoy the season while avoiding the risks associated with excessive heat. Remember to prioritize hydration, provide shade and ventilation, avoid hot surfaces, exercise with caution, and be aware of the signs of heatstroke. With these precautions in place, you and your pets can have a joyful and worry-free summer together.
bY rYAN hILARYWe love our pets! They're precious companions, maybe even part of the family. It's essential that we ensure their well-being and safety, especially when a crisis strikes. Natural disasters or unexpected emergencies don't politely announce themselves. They can occur at any moment, leaving us with little time to react. This is especially true in California, with the ever-present threats of wildfires, earthquakes and flooding. Assembling and maintaining a well-prepared emergency kit for our pets helps ensures you're ready for anything, and provides peace of mind outside of a disaster scenario. In this blog post, the PAWS/LA team will discuss the essential items and steps required to assemble an effective emergency kit. You can also download a comprehensive and printable emergency kit checklist from the CDC website. PAWS/LA Pet Alert Emergency StickerIn case of disaster, it's important than emergency responders are aware that you are a pet owner, and that there may be an animal in your house. Check out our Pet Alert Emergency Sticker. You can display this on your front door or windows to let emergency workers know how many animals they need to account for, as well as their species. This enables them to act fast. In case you're not present, the sticker also includes your contact info. You can order your free sticker by clicking here.
Gather important documentsThe first step in creating a pet emergency kit is to gather all the necessary documents related to your pet. These documents may include vaccination records, medical history, identification papers, and contact information for your veterinarian. Make sure to store them in a waterproof bag or folder and keep a digital copy as a backup. FOOD AND WATER SUPPLIESWhen disaster strikes, access to food and clean water may be limited. Ensure you have a sufficient supply of your pet's regular food stored in airtight containers to maintain its freshness. It is recommended to store at least a week's worth of food for your pet. Additionally, pack portable bowls for both food and water, and remember to rotate the food supply periodically to avoid expiration. Medications and first aidIf your pet requires regular medication, ensure you have a sufficient supply in your emergency kit. Include a first aid supplies specifically designed for pets, which should contain items such as bandages, antiseptic solution, tweezers, and any necessary medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Familiarize yourself with basic pet first aid procedures or enroll in a pet first aid course to be well-prepared in case of an emergency. Comfort and familiarityDisasters can be stressful for pets, and having familiar items can provide them with comfort during uncertain times. Pack their favorite blanket, toys, and any other items that bring them comfort. These familiar objects can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security. leashes collars and carriersIn an emergency, you may need to evacuate with your pet quickly. Ensure you have a sturdy leash and collar readily available for each pet. Additionally, invest in a secure and properly sized pet carrier that is easily transportable. Practice using the carrier with your pet beforehand to reduce stress during an actual emergency. sanitation suppliesMaintaining cleanliness and hygiene is essential for your pet's health. Pack a supply of poop bags, litter, litter trays (for cats), and cleaning supplies such as pet-friendly disinfectants. These items will help you keep your pet's environment clean and reduce the risk of diseases. up to date identification infoIn chaotic situations, it is common for pets to become separated from their owners. Ensure your pet's identification is up to date. A collar with identification tags and a securely fitted microchip with your contact information are vital in helping reunite you with your pet if you get separated. you can never be too preparedYou can never be too prepared. Although we don't want to live our lives anticipating disaster, taking a little time to create an emergency kit for your pet allows you to relax in the knowledge that you're ready for anything. By being prepared, you can minimize stress and provide comfort to your beloved companion when it matters most. Remember to periodically check and replenish supplies, so your emergency kit remains up to date. Taking these proactive steps will help you face emergencies with confidence, knowing that you have everything you need to protect and care for your beloved animals. And who knows, maybe they'll end up protecting and taking care of you!
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AUTHORSOur blog is managed by Ryan Hilary with additional contributions from our awesome volunteers and supporters. Are you a member of our community and have a great idea for a post (or maybe want to write one yourself?). Reach out to Rhilary@pawsla.org. Archives
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