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Originally Posted by FlyingNimbus  I kind of always wondered, how would a person or a family of low income or disability be able to properly financially care for a dog? Are there some sort of resources for people like that?
I know people will say if you can't afford it, don't own it. But those who just happen to be low income but not like - out on the streets low income and just need a little help on it?
I ask because I had a friend who was like that; she came into possession of a stray mutt and she was able to keep them by sacrificing going out, and other non-necessary but fun things... Like if she went to the movies often, liked to dine out, liked to do other things which she could sort of afford but stopped because of that.
But my question is, for people like that, or slightly less fortunate are they able to own a dog? I mean without it being bad for the dog...
I don't think a less fortunate should be barred from having the joys of having a dog but at the same time, a dogs health is more important.
I also knew people like that when I worked in retail.
Im kind of curious if there's even a way of making it work? Without sacrificing the persons health/needs, or the dogs health/needs.
My grandmother before she passed away was unfortunate enough to have to live in a retirement home that wasn't that great(she lived far from us and wouldnt leave the area-- didnt want to) but she was rather alone, and I feel she would had benefit from having a senior dog/cat to keep her company and keep her mind busy... She was pretty old (90) but she was still rather fit and was able to move around a lot without much problem(just slower).
Obviously for seniors the dogs nails would have to be kept trimmed and rounded off. |
It can work with help from able bodied helpers and family.
As a low income, disabled person, with my husband (carer)working part time, we saved, we went without a dog for a time and keep a bank account for our dogs needs. We know Caleb is going to one day need surgery on his knee, we have that money put aside already and add to it in case anything else happens to either dog. Both dogs go to the vets every few months. Pip's been rushed in over night for emergency care and we had no problems paying, as we'd saved up. This meant we don't buy much at Christmas, we go without, we don't have holidays, we planned for the dogs and had a family meeting, and all those living at home agreed/volunteered, on pitching in if needed with all aspects of dog care. (it has not been needed)
We know there are vet paying schemes in our area we could join, but won't unless we could not pay, but we've read up and know were to go, should it happen.
Our dogs get cooked chicken every day, and a good quality dry food due to food allergies. They have numerous beds, homemade -pillows, homemade-dog t-shirts, Dog towels/ tops. Numerous homemade collars/leads. (homemade to save money, old t-shirts and tops make great material for dogs items. Even an old coat is going to make a new coat for the dogs) Brushes, they are groomed at home their grooming kit was a Christmas present, added clips heads were birthday/Christmas presents over time.
I know rich people who's dogs have less and see the vet less often.
My mobility scooter has been altered so it has a barrier running along one side (length), so I can walk the dogs without them accidentally getting their feet under the wheels. They've been trained to walk beside the scooter. I've made clips that attach to various areas of the scooter for their safety. Husband made a box that's attached between my feet, that they can sit it, and be clipped in. Caleb mostly sits, while Pip walks and sometimes loves a run beside the scooter. It's unusual but works.
A 90 year old in a care home, could have a dog, with support. Without that support, the dogs care/needs might suffer. An elderly dog might be perfect for the situation, but most dogs need mental stimulation as well as a walk.
ie we bought a second hand treadmill for days I can't get out, for the dogs. I train them to do new tricks and do kongs, dog games, mind games to do with working out how to get or find treats in various situations. I'd imagine a dog in a home would meet lots of new people but apart from that it could be very boring for the dog.