When the going gets tough we are often inclined to miss out important health care, even for us, rather than things that cheer us up. But if we can reduce the cost of the extras we love to give our fur babies then we can look after their well being too. Now that is what I call a Win-Win.
Our # 1 cost-cutting measure also helps your fur baby stay fit and loving life -
make sure they are not overweight!
Aside from reducing the impact on their joints, keeping your pet at an ideal weight saves you spending excessively on food. Not to mention reducing the cost of medication dosed by weight. You may also notice health benefits such as more energy, improved breathing, and better digestive health, as well as reduced risk of health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. As a result, they may live a longer and healthier life.
How do I know if my dog is too fat?
Don't ask the dog park jury!
Roly-poly may look cute, but it really isn't a sign of how much you love your dog.
If you can easily feel your dog’s ribs then your dog is probably at a healthy weight. If the ribs are difficult to feel or you can't feel them at all, your dog is most likely to be overweight.
Also, take a look at your dog from a top-down view. Dogs should have a noticeable waist between the back of the ribcage and the hips. If there's no waist or it's barely visible, it is usually a sign of excess weight.
Of course, the best way to get an accurate assessment is to ask your vet next time you are visiting. They can provide guidance on your dog's specific needs and help you develop a plan if weight management is necessary.
#2 Make your own pet toys or home gym.
You can get inventive with garden stakes or hula hoops and the garden hose!
Indoor agility courses or pet gyms take more imagination than cash. Here are some things to consider.
Make sure the surfaces your fur baby will be exercising on have a good grip so no skidding injuries occur. Consider different terrains like grass and sand outdoors over paving, or padded/non-slip surfaces like grippy door mats indoors to add variety and challenge.
Also, consider your pet’s health conditions or injuries when selecting exercises. Speak to your rehabilitation practitioner about what exercises to add, they may have already set you up with some home exercises that you can include.
2. Slow it down. 10 minutes of slow-speed maneuvers are just as challenging as 5-minutes at a faster speed (and less likely to cause injuries)
3. Make sure obstacles are not too high for your dog. Tailor the obstacles to your dog's size and breed. What might be a walk in the park for a Border Collie will be a hurdle for a Dachshund.
4. Start with easier exercises and gradually increase the challenge as your dog progresses in their activity level and interest. Doing too much too soon could cause injury or take the fun out of the exercises.
5. If your dog is not very mobile at the moment incorporate warm-up exercises to prepare your dog's muscles for activity and cool-down exercises to prevent stiffness and promote flexibility.
6. Mix it up! Include a variety of obstacles and introduce new ones to keep your dog engaged and keep them interested.
Remember, every dog is unique, so be attentive to your furry friend's reactions and adjust the course as needed. It's all about making the process a positive and enjoyable experience for them!
Snuffle mats can be used for exercises and “search” rewards.
#3 Make your own healthy treats
Fresh foods rather than baked or dehydrated are usually lower in calories and provide more bulk than biscuits.
Cut costs by making your own healthy treats
Lean Proteins
Chicken: Cooked, boneless, and skinless chicken is a great source of lean protein.
Turkey: Similar to chicken, turkey provides a lean protein option.
Beef: Lean cuts of beef, cooked and without added seasonings, can be offered in moderation.
Fish
Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is beneficial for skin and coat health. Make sure it's cooked, boneless, and without added spices.
Vegetables
Carrots: A crunchy and low-calorie snack that is also beneficial for dental health.
Sweet Potatoes: High in fiber and vitamins, sweet potatoes can be cooked and offered in small portions.
Broccoli: A source of vitamins and minerals, broccoli can be served in moderation.
Pumpkin: Plain, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is good for digestive health.
Fruit
Apples: Remove seeds and core, and offer small slices.
Blueberries: High in antioxidants, blueberries are a tasty and healthy treat.
Bananas: A good source of potassium, bananas can be offered in moderation.
Dairy
Plain Yogurt: Rich in probiotics, plain yogurt can be a beneficial addition to your dog's diet. To cut the cost even more yoghurt can be made at home with cultures from the supermarket or health food stores. Avoid varieties with added sugars.
Grains
Brown Rice: A good source of carbohydrates, brown rice can be included in meals.
Quinoa: A complete protein source, quinoa is a nutritious grain for dogs.
Eggs
Scrambled or Boiled Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein. Ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
Organ Meats:
Liver: Liver is nutrient-dense but should be given in moderation due to its high vitamin A content.
Considerations
Avoid Harmful Foods
Certain foods, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic, can be harmful to dogs. Always research before introducing new foods.
Balance and Moderation
Maintain a balanced diet overall by offering a variety of foods. Treats should be just that, not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake.
Food Allergies
Watch for any signs of allergies or sensitivities when introducing new foods as treats. If you notice any persistent adverse reactions, consult your vet.
Remember that while fresh foods can be a healthy addition to your dog's diet, commercial dog food is formulated to meet their specific nutritional requirements. Fresh treats should complement, not replace, a balanced diet.
Dehydrated treats we use at Active Pet Rehab
Dehydrated treats
Dehydration typically occurs at lower temperatures than baking, helping to retain more of the original nutrients in the ingredient and maintain the natural flavors of the ingredients, providing a tasty and appealing snack for dogs.
Many dehydrated treats can be made with a single ingredient, making them suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies and they typically have a longer shelf life compared to homemade baked treats, making them convenient for storage.
Popular Dehydrated Treats:
Sweet Potato Chews:
Thin slices of sweet potatoes dehydrated to create a chewy and nutritious treat.Chicken Jerky:
Lean chicken breast strips dehydrated to make a protein-rich and flavorful snack.Liver Treats:
Liver, whether from chicken, beef, or other sources, can be dehydrated to create a tasty and nutrient-dense treat (beware these ones are very calorie-dense!).Fruit Chips:
Dehydrated fruits like apples, bananas, or berries can be offered as a sweet and healthy option for pups that enjoy it.
Recipe: Homemade Low-Calorie Dog Treats
Ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
1 egg
1/4 cup chopped carrots or blueberries (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and rolled oats.Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the applesauce, pumpkin puree, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix well until you have a dough-like consistency.Add Optional Ingredients:
If desired, add chopped carrots or blueberries to the mixture. These can add flavor and a nutritional boost.Roll and Cut:
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply use a knife to create small squares.Bake:
Place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.Cool:
Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool.Store:
Once cooled, store the treats in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Thank you for being a part of the Active Pet Rehab family
If you have any tips that bring joy and help save you money we would love for you to share them here.