As we discussed previously, we are a nation of dog lovers. Therefore, I wanted this festive blog to honour our fury companions, the joy they bring us, but also reiterate the damning message that
“Pets are not just for Christmas!”
In our blog about the history of dog grooming, we discussed the evolutionary journey our dogs have taken to become one of our closest animal companions. They are loyal, loving, kind, compassionate and highly intelligent mammals. And because their love is unconditional, our love needs to be too! I know I am putting it on thick, but we need to remember that charities such as the Dog’s Trust and Battersea to name a few, really struggle to cope because of the influx of unwanted pets after Christmas.
As a nation we have very busy lives. That is not a bad thing and also why I have my dream job, pampering your delicious pets. However, with so many factors affecting our lives now, please seriously consider the changes and financial implications that may arise from introducing a new pet into your home. They take time to train, need lots of positive interaction and shouldn’t be left alone for long periods of time when first introduced to ‘the pack’ and it’s new home.
Please remember they are for life, not just for “Christ Moist”.
What Are The Costs of Owning A Dog
With UK inflation effecting every element of our lives at the moment. We need to remember unforeseen pet expenditure too. I thought it might be useful to highlight some of those costs to help plan for pet ownership? Some costs may include:
- Pet insurance – Make sure your policy is all inclusive and has no exclusions, such as repeat procedures or long term health issues. This costs about £15 a month.
- Food – I use Butternut Box for delivery convenience and because I know the ingredients are quality. However, even a monthly bag of kibble can cost upwards of £50 a month.
- Health and dental care – Check to see if your pet insurance covers dental care. It normally won’t. However, brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and giving them healthy dental chews will keep the plaque away. A dental visit will otherwise cost you upwards of £100 per visit.
- Yearly shots – These are so important, but again, an expense of about £50 a visit.
- Grooming – Essential if you have a breed, such as a Bichon or Shih Tzu, who’s coat will just keep growing. Fortunately, GOOCHI POOCHI is great value for money, currently charging £40 for the ‘Jimmy Chew’ experience. You should aim to get your dog groomed every 6-8 weeks in my opinion. Luckily, we have a loyalty programme that means our customers currently get 50% off their 3rd visit and the 6th visit is free 😉.
- Monthly flea and worming – This is also very important and will cost you at least £10 a month.
Dogs Need Lots of Attention
Remember, it’s not just about the unforeseen costs. Our pets can be very needy, based on the amount of love and attention they need. Keeping your pet stimulated and happy takes lots of time and attention. Some pet owners are guilty of throwing a treat at them, thinking it will keep them happy or stimulated. It may do in the short term, but this method can add to your financial burdens, when they start putting on weight and developing health issues later. Dogs love interaction games on top of their 40 minute walk. So, whether it is hide and seek, fetch, tug of war, sensory equipment or letting your dog off the lead to sniff in a safe area on walks, give them the time and patience they deserve. Please remember that a dogs nose is their dominant sense, so try not to pull too much when you walk them. They have been waiting all day for this moment, so let them sniff a bit.
Realistically, how often are you around during the day? Keeping a dog indoors all day from 8-9am, and not returning until 5-6pm is not fair. Some owners then expect their dog not to play up or not to toilet in the house. Seeing it from the dog’s point of view is upsetting for me! They look so forward to seeing their owner at the end of the day. Only to be punished because they had to wee inside the house, which they hate to do by the way. Please consider how often you are home or consider a friend or family member to pop round twice a day to walk and play with them. They love you so much, so please show them that love back.
Consider A Rescue Dog
Most dog owners are compassionate, responsible and worship the ground their dogs walks on. I felt it necessary this time to mention a few tips and highlight a few unforeseen issues that could arise to a new dog owner. Remember, if you feel that all of the above issues raised do not apply to you and you still want to open your heart and home to a new dog, rescue centres are a great choice. You will be giving a pet a deserved second chance at happiness. Also, if you feel you want to donate to a charity for Christmas, click on the dog centre links in the earlier section for more information. The rescue dog route does not suit every household i.e. young children, but may be a great choice if you fit their criteria?
If you picked up on the ‘Chris Moist’ reference in the earlier section? No, it was not an auto-correct or spelling mistake. You’ll have to check out Camila Cabello’s latest Christmas song on TikTok. My daughter and I are still unsure if she was joking when she released the track, but it made us giggle nonetheless 😂.
I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy, dog filled New Year. Remember to leave your comments and follow our socials for updates and cute photos 🎉🎄.
Lots of Christmas love
Louisa on behalf of GOOCHI POOCHI