Keep your pet happy on a budget and while at work

There are options to bypass neglecting your pet, but some of them are expensive and can be time consuming. Doggie day cares have become popular solutions to this problem; however, if you don't have a car or don't have one nearby, it can be quite a production just to get your pup cared for during the day. Not to mention the high cost that comes with any type of day care.

Be creative. Here are a few tips that will enable you to have your precious companion but give them the attention and exercise they deserve.

Consider a dog walker

There are innumerable ways to increase the cost of this service. Dog walking companies, like day cares, have gotten pretty elaborate. Some of them will pick your pooch up for anything from a run in the park to a walk on the beach. But if you're looking for a way to save money, these might not be your best options. Private dog walkers are an alternative to companies that offer pretty good deals. They will pick your pooch up from your apartment and typically walk them individually or with a few other dogs to make sure they get maximum exercise.

Have a neighbor spend time with your dog

When we were growing up with my beagle, Bailey, my parents would often pay the neighborhood kids to come play with Bailey if we were going to be gone for an extended period of time. Bailey could have been okay staying inside all day, but dogs need human interaction and fresh air. It's likely that many of your neighbors or neighbor kids would be thrilled to play with your dog for 30 minutes after they come home from school, or once or twice during an afternoon. They'll usually do it for a pretty reasonable fee.

Research doggie day care options

Doggie day cares tend to be expensive, but you do get a lot for your money. Your pup gets to play with other dogs, they typically get a couple walks, and they get lots of human interaction. You can buy a package deal for a better rate. Many times you can go in with a family member who also has a dog to get a reduced rate for the second dog.

It's never cheap to take care of your four-footed friend, but with a little research and creativity, you can get some good deals that will give your puppy a chance to run around with other dogs in the fresh air.