I recently visited our local Humane Society and it hit home that overcrowding is beginning to be a problem and the economy seems to be the reason. According to Newsday and other news sources, there has been an influx in pets at animal shelters because their owners just can’t afford to care for them anymore. Some animals are even being abandoned due to home foreclosures. And some of those who can afford a pet are having to skip on the animal’s shots or treatments and cut back on food or toys.

Although the American Pet Products Association says that Americans spend an estimated $45 billion on their pets, that number may start to decrease due to cuts in spending. However, there is some advice out there to help you continue to care for your pet. A recent article in Family Circle magazine caught my eye: “Recession-Proof Your Pet.”

If you are a lucky one who is holding on to Fido or Fluffy, there are some things you can do to save money:

Payment plans

Some vets will allow you to pay off debt on a monthly or weekly basis and there are other resources out there to help you do that. Believe it or not, there is a credit card specifically designed to help you pay for the care of your pet. CareCredit is just for health care services and helps you manage out-of-pocket expenses. According to the website, it not only can be used for your pet, but also your dental needs, vision, hearing and cosmetic treatments.

Get in touch with a school

If you have a vet school nearby, they may offer services at a lower cost. The AVMA website will help you find a list of schools in your area.

Clubs for certain breeds

These groups can also be source for possible financial assistance. The American Kennel Club site may help you find a club nearby.

Do-It-Yourself Pet Grooming

You don’t have to pay $50 to have your pet groomed. Learn how to do it yourself and save money. Ask your vet for pointers and learn how to clip your pet’s nails as well.

Help with affording pet food

If you are struggling to feed your animal, contact your local shelter. Many of them offer pet food assistance programs. Website searches may also help. Check out Save Our Pets Food Bank. Or if you’re really creative, offer your pets some homemade treats.

Spay, Neuter and Shots

Yes, it can be an expensive procedure but there may be a clinic nearby that has low-cost or free treatment, according to the Family Circle article. The nonprofit group Friends of Animals also may be able to give you a much cheaper quote than your doctor. A certificate that can be used for a routine spay or neuter can be purchased and is honored by licensed veterinarians. I found a mobile group of vets that travel to different locations around town and offer discounts on shots. We took our cat Agent Orange recently, spent $45 and it covers him for three years.

If you can afford a pet during these tough times, there are plenty out there. Consider adopting and help to save an animal in your area.