ATLANTA, May 7, 2026 (Newswire.com) – With more than 25 years of experience in the pet industry, Kristen Levine has watched how pet care has evolved and what those changes mean for today’s households. As National Pet Month is observed in May, Levine reviews rising costs, shifting care routines, the most popular trends among pet owners, and the growing recognition that pet ownership contributes to overall well-being.
Levine emphasizes practical, budget-conscious steps that owners can adopt immediately to keep animals healthy, comfortable, and safe. Her approach focuses on prevention, affordable daily routines, and taking advantage of modern tools that provide better information and convenience without a heavy price tag. From AI-driven health monitoring to thoughtful enrichment and simple nutritional upgrades, these recommendations are designed to improve physical health, behavior, and quality of life for pets and the people who care for them.
Practical Tips for Everyday Care
Small, consistent habits matter. Levine encourages regular preventive care and early detection as the most cost-effective strategy: keeping up with vaccinations, routine checkups, and dental care can prevent expensive problems later. For daily life at home, she recommends structured play and enrichment to reduce destructive behavior—short, frequent interactive sessions tailored to a pet’s age and activity level can lower stress and improve obedience without costly training programs.
Food and treats are another area where owners can make healthier, budget-friendly choices. Look for nutritionally balanced options appropriate for your pet’s life stage and size, and consider using higher-quality treats sparingly for training and reward. Levine suggests reading labels to compare protein sources and basic ingredients, and rotating affordable, wholesome options to keep meals interesting while avoiding gimmicky, overpriced products.
When it comes to grooming and maintenance, many routine tasks can be done at home with the right guidance. Basic brushing, nail trims, ear care, and at-home baths performed safely reduce salon visits. Levine recommends using trusted online resources or one-off professional consultations to learn proper techniques, then maintaining those routines at home to save over time.
NEWEST INNOVATIONS FOR PETS
Levine highlights technological advancements that make early detection and continuous care more accessible. One notable example she cites is the PetPace AI Health Monitoring Collar. Described as more than a standard activity tracker, it delivers clinically validated, real-time health insights, analytics, and alerts. According to Levine, the device monitors vital signs such as pulse, respiration, and temperature, and can detect signs of pain before obvious symptoms appear. It also includes access to 24/7 telemedicine with licensed veterinarians, which can help owners make informed decisions and address concerns more quickly. PetPace is being promoted with a $100 discount in May at PetPace.com.
Beyond sophisticated monitors, Levine points to simpler outdoor and indoor products that improve daily life: weather-appropriate outdoor gear to keep pets comfortable on walks, durable toys for long-lasting enrichment, and practical feeding solutions that reduce waste and mess. These items, when chosen thoughtfully, can enhance safety and behavior while stretching a household budget.
Behavior and Well-being
Behavioral health is a recurring theme. Levine advises owners to observe patterns, adjust routines, and use enrichment to address boredom or anxiety. She stresses that early intervention—whether via training, changes in exercise, or medical evaluation—often prevents escalation and reduces long-term costs. For many owners, combining routine enrichment with periodic professional advice creates measurable improvements in both behavior and quality of life.
Levine also underscores the emotional benefits pets bring, noting that the human-animal bond is a key reason many households prioritize pet care despite rising costs. With thoughtful planning and selective use of new tools, pet ownership can remain rewarding and sustainable.
For a full profile and extended coverage of Levine’s recommendations, see the Tips on TV article linked below.
Read the full Tips on TV article