Take care of the pennies and hounds look after themselves
EXPERT TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP OUR DOGS HEALTHY – AND SAVE MONEY AT THE SAME TIME
★ WE all want the best for our pets to ensure they live long, healthy and happy lives.
And you can learn the best natural healthy choices at the Natural Dog Expo, taking place at the Voco St John’s Hotel, Solihull on May 5.
★ Ahead of the event, Star Paws columnist CATHERINE LAMB shares money-saving tips to keep your hound fighting fit…
KEEPING IN YOUR DOG TOP SHAPE
THErE are some easy ways you can prevent a trip to the vet. Here vet nurse rachel Bean shares how to keep your hound happy and healthy…
● Feed your pooch a good diet. Natural food will keep your dog healthy on the inside. It will also give them strong teeth and claws, as well as a glossy coat and loads more energy.
● Brush your dog’s teeth. Dental appointments are costly so taking time to care for your pup’s teeth will save you a lot of money. It also prevents potential tooth loss and dental pain.
● Trim your pup’s claws. It may require a bit of training and patience, but it will cut out the cost of a trip to the vet or groomer. It will also lower the risk of snags or tears, which often need expensive veterinary treatment.
● Go for regular walks. If your dog is overweight, it can lead to lots of health complications that may require costly medication. A good walk every day will help keep your hound happy and healthy.
● Play with your pooch. Play time is an endorphin booster and a great way to bond with your pet. It will also get those happy hormones flowing, preventing the need for any medication for anxiety or depression.
● Buy a canine first-aid kit. This will come in handy when your pooch has a minor bump or scrape. It’s also a good idea to take a canine first-aid course so you know when your dog can be treated at home and when to call a vet.
BEEF BOOSTER
1. Lightly cook 200g of beef mince.
2. Gently fry 40g of chicken liver in a pan.
3. Mix together then add one tsp hemp seed oil, one tsp barley grass powder and half a tsp of beef bone meal powder.
4. Allow to cool then portion out a serving to your dog.
CHEF’S CHICKEN
1. Lightly cook 200g of chicken mince.
2. Gently fry 40g of lambs’ liver in a pan.
3. Mix together then add in one tsp cold-pressed salmon oil, one tsp barley grass powder and half a tsp of beef bone meal powder.
4. Leave to cool before portioning out and serving to your pooch.
These recipes will enable you to feed a medium-sized pooch for £2.18 per day. You can make them even cheaper by substituting the mince with one from a pet shop.
If you want more recipes, the Natural Dog Expo will be giving away a fantastic home-cooking recipe booklet, which contains all the science and research studies behind feeding real food to dogs.
TREAT
Here are some healthy and cost-effective snacks you can feed your canine companion…
● Carrots: A fantastic low-calorie treat, carrots contain lots of vitamins and fibre. Your pooch will also get a boost of potassium, calcium, magnesium and beta-carotene.
● Sprats: The perfect addition to any meal, the oily fish can lower the amount of cholesterol in your dog’s blood, which will help to maintain a healthy heart. The omega-3 oils can also reduce inflammation.
● Eggs: Rich in protein, they are a great source of vitamins B2, B12 and A. These are all amazing for maintaining your furry friend’s overall health, skin and coat.