The local pet store sells dogs, and not pedigree dogs, and they are expensive.
I like dogs, cats, too. I have a few cats in the house, and my partner and I feed the neighbor cats as well. We're suckers for small animals.
Is a dog from the pound cheap? Not so much. After getting the essentials, getting the pet released from the pound, and getting that first visit to the vet over, one is looking at quite an investment, plus a few new spots on the carpet.
The dog is settling in and getting acquainted with the cats. One cat has taken to following the dog around and showing her who is still the boss. The dog is getting the message.
Are you getting the message that things will hardly be the same in the next few years? Taxes will likely rise, and unemployment is going through the roof. The government is not looking out for the people.
What's the answer? Well, investing hasn't worked. Much of what any of us has invested is gone. Our home values are in the tank, but that doesn't stop the government from raising property taxes. If you still have cash, now is the time to start looking for bargains. They are out there. You just have to look around.
Stocking up is a good choice. Buying non-perishables on sale will save you some money. With the holidays coming up, lots of stuff will go on sale, and if you can avoid doing so, do not use your credit card. Inflation is on the horizon, and how soon it will arrive is anybody's guess. You can't print money and not expect something to change.
I just received another notice about a rate increase for cash advances. Wow, I'm glad those days are over. I used them because it was free money. Not anymore. Nobody can afford 20% interest, so if you have a cash advance on your card, get it paid off asap. And if you are using that same card for purchases. STOP. Your payments will go to pay lowest rate, while the higher interest bearing side will start compounding. That will lead to financial crisis and ruin.
And where is the bailout money? Nobody seems to know what has happened to it, and it appears nothing is happening because of the bailout. At least, not yet.
Start a business? Yeah, if you keep it manageable. Don't mortgage your home or get an equity loan. If it requires a considerable amount of cash to start a business, that could be the nail in your business's coffin. Start small and grow.
I know of a business that costs nothing to start. Have you got one that does that? That's what it takes today. Low cost start-up and grow.
